Hemp seeds are highly nutritious and rich in healthy fats, protein and various minerals. Technically a nut, they have a mild, nutty flavour and are often referred to as hemp hearts.
On November 12th 2018 the growing, manufacturing and sale of hemp seed products for human consumption became legal in New Zealand under licence. Prior to this change, despite having no psychoactive effects and being a highly nutritious product it was only able to be marketed as pet food, which unsurprisingly was not a huge seller beyond a knowing few!
We are getting more hemp products offered to us daily but here is some information on hemp and the products currently available in our stores.
Hemp vs Marijuana – What is the difference?
Hemp is a member of the cannabis family and has historically got into hot water by association with the better known cannabis species – marijuana.
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the psychoactive ingredient present in marijuana and hemp contains almost no THC. Furthermore, hemp also has high cannabidiol (CBD) content that acts as THC’s antagonist, essentially making the minimal amount of THC present in hemp useless as a recreational drug. CBD is said to have a range of curative benefits that could assist in hormone imbalance, anxiety, inflammation, digestion, and heart failure.
Sale of the other parts of the cannabis sativa plant such as the stems, flowers and leaves are still prohibited in New Zealand due to higher levels of CBD found in these parts of the plant. The laws around medicinal cannabis have not been changed, but the Government is working on a referendum on cannabis in 2020.
a nutritious superfood
Hemp seeds are a superfood and boast high nutritional levels in omega 3 fatty acids as well as being a great source of protein, potassium and fibre. They are a great nutritional addition to a plant-based diet.
Good Pantry are a new supplier who will be providing us with hemp products such as hemp flour and hemp protein powder. Their supply of hemp seeds are grown in New Zealand. Their hemp is non organic but we will strongly encourage them to gain certification.
“Hemp grows naturally without the need of any fertilisers, pesticides or chemicals. It helps remedy soils and counters our carbon footprint. The crop is quick growing and well suited to New Zealand climate”.
-Good Pantry
We have a range of hemp products such hemp seeds, granolas, oil, drinking chocolate, baking flour and protein powders. Yum!