Organic hemp hearts are shelled hemp seeds that are derived from the plant Cannabis sativa, which has a low concentration of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound found in marijuana. Organic hemp hearts are cultivated without the use of synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs), and have a high nutritional value and various applications in different industries.
Market Size and Growth
According to a report by Global Market Insights, the global organic hemp market size recorded a revenue of over USD 90 million in 2021. Due to the strong focus on nutritious animal feed production, the industry is expected to depict a CAGR of more than 13% from 2022 to 2030. Hemp seed-based foods, which include organic hemp hearts, are one of the major product segments in this market.
Another report by Verified Market Research states that the global hemp-based food market size was valued at USD 4.73 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach USD 10.67 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 10.77% from 2023 to 2030. The increasing demand for organic hemp-based foods is one of the key trends that will contribute to market growth in the forthcoming years.
Some of the factors that are driving the growth of organic hemp hearts market are:
- The rising health awareness and the harmful effects of ingredients used in the food and beverage industry have raised the demand for organic food products. This trend is highly appropriate for hemp food products, and many leading market players are launching organic hemp food products to cater to the growing consumer base.
- The growing inclination towards dietary supplements among consumers who seek natural and plant-based sources of protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Organic hemp hearts can provide these nutrients in an easily digestible form.
- The environment-friendly cultivation of hemp crop that does not require much water or land resources, and can also improve soil quality by preventing erosion and weed growth.
- The rising investment and government support for industrial hemp production and research, especially in countries like Canada, the U.S., China, and France, where hemp cultivation is legal and regulated.
Nutritional Benefits
Organic hemp hearts are an excellent source of highly digestible plant-based protein, making them a great addition to the diets of athletes, vegans, and vegetarians. These seeds contain all 9 essential amino acids, which are crucial for protein synthesis and must be obtained through food. Furthermore, organic hemp hearts are rich in a healthy 3:1 ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which can lower inflammation and support cardiovascular health.
Organic hemp hearts also provide dietary fiber, antioxidants, vitamins (such as vitamin E), minerals (such as iron, magnesium, zinc), and phytochemicals (such as cannabidiol or CBD). Some of the benefits of organic hemp heart consumption include:
- Improving cardiovascular health by lowering blood pressure, cholesterol levels, inflammation, and oxidative stress
- Supporting brain function and mood by enhancing neurotransmitter production and neurogenesis
- Boosting immune system function by modulating cytokine production and balancing gut microbiota
- Promoting skin health by moisturizing dry skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis
- Alleviating symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and menopause by regulating hormonal balance
- Aiding weight management by increasing satiety and metabolism
Applications and Recipes
Organic hemp hearts can be used as an ingredient in various food products such as breads, cereals, granola bars, milk alternatives, butter, cheese, salad dressings, hummus, burgers, and more. They can also be added to smoothies, shakes, yogurt, oatmeal, porridge, or salads for a boost of nutrition and flavor. Organic hemp hearts have a nutty taste that complements both sweet and savory dishes.
Here are some examples of delicious recipes that use organic hemp hearts:
- Vegan Hemp Hearts Recipes | Falafel, Cookies, Porridge: This article shows how to make three vegan dishes using organic hemp hearts: falafel patties with tahini sauce; oatmeal raisin cookies with hemp seeds; and almond coconut porridge with hemp seeds.
- 13+ Healthy Hemp Seed Recipes – Nutrition in the Kitch: This article features 13 healthy recipes that incorporate organic hemp seeds or hearts into beverages, breakfasts, snacks, salads, soups, sauces, desserts, and more.
- 6 Tasty Hemp Hearts Recipes – Simple Green Smoothies: This article presents six tasty recipes that use organic hemp hearts in smoothies: green detox smoothie with toasted hemp seed gremolata; chocolate weight loss protein smoothie; tropical mango kale smoothie; berry blast antioxidant smoothie; creamy avocado banana green smoothie; and strawberry banana oatmeal breakfast smoothie.