From the 12th November 2017 the Australian and New Zealand Food Standards Code made changes to permit the sale of hemp seed as a food. Previously, Australia and New Zealand were the only countries in the world which prohibited the consumption of hemp as it was classed under the species of cannabis, a psychoactive drug.
Despite numerous and thorough studies showing that hemp seed is low-psychoactive it has taken many years and lots of lobbying to get the change through. Hemp has naturally low levels of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) which is the psychoactive ingredient found in cannabis. Hemp seeds contain less than 0.5% of THC.
The Australian Government now acknowledges that there is no risk of getting ‘high’ from hemp seeds and you will not be tested positive to being under the influence of THC on road side drug test.
So why is hemp so good for us? Hemp seeds are similar to a small nut with a crisp shell and soft inner heart. Seeds are sold unhulled and the heart has a light nutty taste. Hemp is a fantastic source of protein (around 25%) and contain essential amino acids, minerals and vitamin E. It is one of the best food sources with a high ratio of omega 6 to omega 3 polyunsaturated fats.
Now that we can eat it, what do we do with it? Here are 4 ways to eat hemp with various food combinations: