Here’s Why You Need To Start Eating Hemp And Hemp-Based Foods

For years, hemp hasn’t been used to its full potential, nor was it echoed through the media to inform the public how they’re missing out on a superfood, especially for vegetarian and vegan lifestyles. 

A few years ago, if anyone brought up hemp in businesses settings and ventures (especially before the 2018 Farm Bill was passed), they’d probably be seen as trying to support the illegal cannabis plant, but that’s far from the truth. Today, the stigma around hemp is finally decreasing, and at never-before-seen rates too. 

Without the stigma, this means more access to capital, easier businesses ventures, and more scientific research. But what can hemp be used for? Besides its sustainability and friendly environmental impact, the hemp seed is rich in nutrients and comprises all the factors that make up a superfood. 

For starters, let’s talk about farming practices with hemp. In most cases, cultivators will designate land solely for hemp crops. These crops are known as “bioaccumulators,” which basically suck up any heavy metals, pesticides, and other impurities in the soil to cleanse and rejuvenate it.

The plants that absorb these impurities are then used for materials like clothing or rebar to replace steel in cement blocks. Once the soil is free of contaminants, farmers will grow fresh hemp crops for the food industry. Finally, some companies producing plant-based foods are beginning to use hemp as the first and core ingredient.

Hemp is full of protein, and it impressively contains all nine essential amino acids. Also, it’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids, an essential fuel for the brain. Hemp seeds that are still in their hulls are also a great source of fiber, not to mention other essential vitamins and minerals.

Nowadays, Gen Z and Millenial consumers want to know exactly what they’re eating, its ingredients, and its nutritional value. And some are even realizing that a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle isn’t entirely beneficial if there’s a lack of protein, nutrients, and minerals. 

Chances are, if you care about what you’re eating, you’re also for environmental sustainability, and hemp is as sustainable as it gets. Not to mention the fact that it’s a superfood, it’s safe to say that anyone, vegan, vegetarian, or not, could benefit from incorporating hemp ingredients into their daily dishes.