Hemp hip to eat but it’s not the high life
PREPARE to see hemp seeds everywhere – but don’t expect to get a buzz.
The controversial seeds, which have long been associated with drug culture, will be legal to consume in food products from Sunday, and have been touted as the next big superfood packed with vitamins and antioxidants.
Some Gold Coast cafe owners even think they could overtake the ubiquitous soy and chia seeds.
Bam Bam Bakehouse owner Ursula Watts said she would “definitely” consider selling hemp seeds in smoothies.
“We’ll be looking at hemp seeds for their incredible health benefits,” she said.
“By the sounds of it they’ll become as common as soy and chia (seeds).
“We love to experiment with new things so this is something that will work perfectly in salads or form part of the topping of our Barbie Smoothies.”
The hemp industry has lobbied for more than 15 years, while federal and state health ministers were concerned the seeds could affect roadside drug testing.
Until now, they have been grown in Australia only for use in cosmetics and shampoo, much to the frustration of farmers who have watched rivals in Canada, Europe and the US steal market share.
However, in April it was ruled that low-THC hemp seeds could be consumed safely. THC stands for tetrahydrocannabinol, the chemical responsible for marijuana’s hallucinogenic effects.
Hemp Foods Australia CEO Paul Benhaim said hemp seeds were “exceptionally rich in healthy fats, protein and various minerals”.
“With a mild, nutty flavour, hemp is a delicious and nutritious addition to many foods,” he said.
Gold Coast couple Nicky and Jimmy Balint have started a business called Hemp Yeah selling hemp-infused gelato and lollipops, which they anticipate will “take off”.
“We started making the products in April when we heard that hemp would be legalised,” Mr Balint said.
“Our gelato is vegan, it’s very healthy and clean and the hemp seeds are packed with nutrients, high in fibre, protein and omega 3 and 6.
“There are farmers who grow the plants and then supply us with the seeds ... there is a big confusion about hemp and cannabis, hemp does not contain a high amount of the (hallucinogen) component of marijuana.
“Our gelato and lollipops won’t get you high.”