The Ever Versatile – Hemp

Australia was growing hemp from the moment the first settlers arrived as the fibre was used extensively in rope/sail making for ships.  It was big business across the world as hemp fibre was the main textile used for this purpose until the industrial revolution: resulting in the creation of synthetic fibres.  Hemp was deemed a prohibited substance in Australia in 1937 after America pushed to stop production. 

In 1988, Australia permitted hemp to be grown for other purposes but not food. It was only a short time ago (2017) hemp was legalised to be sold as a food product in Australia and New Zealand. We were the last two countries in the world to legalise hemp seed products for food, conceding it is safe for human consumption allowing hemp to be sold as food products. 

Hemp Seeds

Are the part of the plant that gets processed into the different hemp food options.

Benefits:

1. Excellent form of protein – They are considered a complete protein meaning they contain all the essential aminos resembling animal protein (although their lysine content is low).  They are hulled as this makes the protein more easily digested/absorbed
2. A good plant form of essential fatty acids including Omega 3, Omega 6 and Omega 9.
3. Vitamin packed – the only plant source of vitamin D3!  Contains good levels of vitamin E, phosphorus, folate, magnesium, calcium and zinc and many more!
4. High in fibre
5. Low allergenic
6. Phytosterol rich – good for cholesterol
7. Low in carbs/sugar

How to use hemp seeds – perfect to sprinkle on your salads, muesli, smoothie bowls, avocado toast or blitz into a creamy hemp seed milk (great dairy-free plant “milk’).

Hemp seeds also come as protein powder and flour.  The protein powder can be used in the same way as any other protein powder.  Hemp flour is a good gluten free alternative when baking.  It’s also being added to chocolate and many other foods.

What do they taste like?  My personal opinion – a cross between cashews and sunflower seeds.

Hemp Seed Oil

Hemp seeds contain around 35% oil which is expelled by cold pressing.  This oil contains 20% Omega 3 fatty acids, which is not as good as fish oil to obtain your omega 3’s but a good vegetarian option nonetheless and is balanced by containing Omega 6 and 9 fatty acids.  The main benefit of hemp oil is its anti-inflammatory effects.  Never heat your hemp seed oil – use in dressings, smoothies etc

Hemp Body and Hair Care

These products use hemp seed oil as it won’t clog pores and really hydrates the skin.  Hemp oil for hair can be used for the most sensitive scalps and can reduce hair breakage and stimulate hair growth.

Hemp Clothing/Linen

It is one of the most environmentally friendly fabrics.  The hemp crop is natural, highly renewable and repairs the environment throughout its lifecycle. It requires less land and water and does not require pesticides.  It is a zero-waste product. 

Hemp can be made into just about anything you can think of including fuel, paper, surfboards etc.  Perhaps this is the way of the future for better sustainability and less chemicals?

*References available upon request

  01/05/2024     Articles     0 Comment(s)