In the past two years, raw shelled hemp seeds have become well photo of hemp heartsknown for their nutritious value. Although recognized as a superfood by some, they’re still carrying the cannabis family stigma. Hemp and marijuana are frequently in the news these days, providing us with plenty of information about the benefits of marijuana’s nutrient-dense cousin.

Unlike marijuana, it is legal to consume hemp in the United States. Marijuana and industrial hemp are not the same plant; they are different species of Cannabis sativa L. While marijuana contains 3-15 percent of the psychoactive ingredient delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), industrial hemp has less than 1 percent. Despite this fact, growing hemp is still illegal in the majority of United States and, interestingly enough, the U.S. has the highest consumer rates of hemp foods, soaps, lotions, and other products.

The centre, or “heart” of raw hulled hemp seeds is the most nutritious part. It is an excellent source of protein, essential amino acids, dietary fibre, and omega 3 and 6. It also contains antioxidants, vitamins,  minerals, manganese, and zinc, to name a few. They are energy-boosting and stabilize appetite, while improving digestion. As well as being a superfood, they are gluten-free and make an excellent replacement for those with nut allergies. They make a nutritious, and tasty addition to yogurt, salads, wraps, desserts, stir-fries, smoothies, cereals, and baked goods.

Add this No-Bake Hemp Brownie Bites recipe to your collection of Hemp Recipes!

Click here to learn more about the delicious nutritious hemp seed hearts.