The demand for plant-based proteins has increased in the last couple of years as consumer demand for animal-based proteins reduces. While wheat and soy have been the primary sources of plant-based proteins for a while, their link to allergenic issues has highlighted the need for other plant-based options.
This has seen food producers explore other alternatives that don’t trigger food allergies as a way to better meet consumer needs. This is where hemp, a crop that’s been cultivated for millennia globally and was legalized for industrial use in America with the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, comes in.
Hemp, also known as Cannabis sativa L., is grown specifically for industrial and consumable use. The global market for this crop is expected to reach a value of $26.6 billion this year.
Prior studies have evaluated the quality of protein from hemp seeds, with their exceptional nutritional value increasing interest in their use as an ingredient in foods and dietary supplements. A recently conducted study has determined that hemp seeds can be used as an alternative source of protein.
These seeds are rich in healthy lipids with a high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids like omega-3 and omega-6 as well as vitamins A, D and E. The National Hemp Association notes that apart from their beneficial fatty acids, hemp seeds also contain fiber.
The hulling process is known to reduce dietary fibers and antinutrients, while increasing the protein content of hemp seeds. The study was led by Tănase Apetroaei and was carried out in scientific databases like Food Science and Technology Abstracts, ScienceDirect, Web of Sciences, and PubMed, among others relevant to food and nutrition. Its findings were reported in the Journal of Food Science.
Currently, food companies are focused on finding ways to blend hemp as a protein source into different foods, with a focus on the flavor and texture. Thus far, hemp seeds have been tested in items like baked goods, protein bars and dairy alternatives.
If additional research confirms consistent quality, hemp could see its use grow beyond niche health food markets.
The crop’s ability to grow in different climates and regions means that producers may also incorporate it into their operations easily, which may make it easier for smaller farms to take part in this industry.
It should be noted though that additional studies testing the appeal and palatability of hemp proteins in foods as well as collaborative efforts between farmers, businesses and researchers are required to improve processing methods.
As other verticals open up within the hemp industry, we could see existing industry actors like Software Effective Solutions Corp. (d/b/a MedCana) (OTC: SFWJ) pivoting or expanding their offerings to include these new use-cases.
NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to Software Effective Solutions Corp. (d/b/a MedCana) (OTC: SFWJ) are available in the company’s newsroom at https://cnw.fm/SFWJ
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