Hemp—from seeds to oil to hearts—offer some mighty health benefits for their size.

Hemp—from seeds to oil to hearts—offer some mighty health benefits for their size

The principal focus on hemp cultivation in the U.S. is related to the extraction of many of the 113 known cannabinoids (CBD, CBG, etc.) from the plant. Hemp has also been a fiber crop for thousands of years and its fibers are still the gold standard for nautical rope, and are widely used in fabrics, textiles and composite materials. Many swear that hemp is a better fabric fiber than cotton. In addition, however, hemp can be a source of protein and nutrition, especially from the oils pressed from the seeds. The following Cannabis Corner article this week has been selected by PorterPartners to provide our FON member readers with information on the nutritional value of hemp and ideas on recipes and uses. We can’t predict if a significant market demand for food products from hemp will ever develop in the U. S., but we hope that you find the nutritional and dietary information useful.

Seeds and hearts boast plant protein (a “complete” protein at that!) and fiber, as well as some iron. And all three (seeds, hearts, and oil) deliver those great-for-you omega-3 fats. But their health boons aren’t the only reason nutritionists like hemp so much—it’s a tasty, filling ingredient that builds flavor and texture into recipes. 

Here’s how 12 dietitian nutritionists are using hemp seeds, hearts, and oil as ingredients:

1. I make homemade muesli and include hemp seeds. — Regan Jones, RD
   
   
2. Add them to oats and mix them in peanut butter for PB&J with added protein. — Christopher Mohr, PhD, RD
   
   
3. I use hemp seeds as a topper for everything from pancakes to soups and salads. — Sports Dietitian Kelly Jones, MS, RD, CSSD
   
   
4. I blend them into smoothies and sauces, such as tahini. — Shena Jaramillo, MS, RD
   
   
5. I love to make my own hemp seed milk because it can easily be done at home in just 30 minutes! It is also a great option for people who are on specialty diets because it is vegan, gluten-free, and rich in many important nutrients. — Emily Kyle, MS, RDN
   
   
6. Add hemp seeds to granola—homemade or store-bought. Sprinkle on top of a homemade parfait or a smoothie bowl. — Tabitha Nicholas, MS, RDN
   
   
7. I use hemp seed oil in salad dressings since it’s not heat stable. It adds a bright nutty flavor that pairs well with lemon juice in a vinaigrette! — Bri Bell, RD
   
   
8. I love hemp seeds or hearts on avocado toast with an egg. — Elizabeth Walser, RD
   
   
9. I use hemp hearts in meatballs instead of breadcrumbs, and for topping baked chicken and meatloaf for texture. — Bracha Kopstick, RD
   
   
10. Sprinkle on top of a bowl of fresh fruit. They add lovely nutty flavor. — Vivienne Aronowitz, RD, CDE
    
    
11. I put 1 to 2 tablespoons in any baked good I am making. — Emily Feivor , RDN
    
    
12. I toss hemp seeds—for an extra buttery crunch—into a grain dish. — Mary Purdy, MS, RDN

If these ideas inspire you, and you’re looking for recipes you can use immediately, take a look at two of our favorites—like these Hemp Protein Pancakes, or this Hemp Pesto.

If any FON member would like more information on this article, or to discuss this or any other aspect of the cannabis industry, please contact Dean Porter at (843) 849-3191, or by e-mail at dean@porterpartnersgroup.com. PorterPartners is a free resource and member benefit available to all FON members providing insight and information relating to the cannabis industry.