Name: Hemp seed butter — a green-brown, nutty spread made from ground hemp seeds (Cannabis sativa), usually the hulled seeds known as hemp hearts. Food-grade hemp seeds contain only trace amounts of the psychoactive compound THC.
Description
Hemp has been grown for thousands of years for fibre, food and medicine. The seeds are a long-standing food in parts of Asia and Europe, and hemp foods have grown in popularity since the 1990s, particularly in Canada, one of the largest producers. The seeds contain all of the essential amino acids, which is unusual for a plant food.
Seed butters are made by grinding seeds into a smooth paste, and the best contain only seeds, with perhaps a little salt or oil. Hemp seed butter has an earthy, slightly grassy, nutty flavour and a thick, slightly gritty texture, and is often a pleasant green colour.
Main nutrition value
Hemp seed butter provides protein with all essential amino acids, healthy unsaturated fats in a favourable balance of omega-6 and omega-3, and minerals such as magnesium, iron and zinc.
How best to be consumed
Hemp seed butter is a nutritious spread and a nut-free option.
- Spread on toast or crackers, or stir into porridge and yoghurt.
- Blend into smoothies, dressings and dips for a nutty boost.
- Use in energy balls, baking and sauces.
- Store in the fridge, since the oils are delicate.
- Choose a brand with hemp seeds as the main ingredient and no added sugar.
Overconsumption could cause…
Seed butters are nutritious but calorie-dense, and portion size matters.
- Weight gain from large servings, since a tablespoon holds around 90 calories or more.
- Added sugar, palm oil and salt in some commercial brands, so check the label.
- Possible effects on drug tests in rare cases from trace THC, and a rare chance of a food allergy in sensitive people.
Wikipedia — Hemp seed, used for origin, naming and history: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hemp_seed
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