The Amazing Hemp Heart

Hemp is thought to have originated in the Himalayas. Hemp has been used for fabric, rope, and food for thousands of years. The oldest relic of hemp fabric was dated to 8,000 B.C. Today, hemp hearts can be found worldwide. They’re loved for their versatility, nutty flavor, and nutritious benefits.

Hemp hearts are the soft inner part of hemp seeds after the outer shell has been removed. The tiny cream and green-colored seeds are sometimes referred to as shelled or hulled hemp seeds.

Why eat Hemp Hearts?

• Ideal 3:1 ratio of omega 6 and omega 3 fatty acids- 15 grams of fat in 3 Tbsp.
• A complete protein, because it contains all essential amino acids- 11 grams of protein in 3 Tbsp.
• Rich in minerals like iron (13% RDA), magnesium (50% RDA), and zinc (30% RDA) in 3 Tbsp.
• High in vitamin E for healthy hair, skin, and nails
• Easily digested and assimilated
• Slows down sugar absorption, to maintain even blood sugar levels
• Fights against inflammation

Hemp Hearts and CBD

Hemp is a cousin to the marijuana plant but does not produce detectable cannabinoids (THC) in its seeds. CBD oil is made from the leaves, flowers, and stalks of the hemp plant—the only parts of the plant where cannabidiol is found.

Using Hemp Hearts

Hemp hearts have a mild pleasant nutty flavor and are yummy to eat by the handful, sprinkle on salads, add to granola, blend into smoothies, and soups. Mix into dressing, dips, and sauces- use hemp hearts to make nut-free pesto. Use in homemade crackers or make homemade hemp milk. Stir seeds or milk into cooked rice, quinoa for a twist on your hot cereal. Use hemp milk to create a protein-packed latte.

Storage and Food Safety

Hemp seeds can spoil fairly easily. But when stored properly, a package of hemp hearts can last for a year. Hemp hearts should be stored in a cool, dry place or at cooler temperatures. The best way to prevent spoilage is to store hemp seeds in a sealed container in the refrigerator. When stored in a pantry, they will only last 3 to 4 months.

You can also store seeds in freezer-safe bags and store them in the freezer. You’ll know that hemp hearts have gone bad when they have a rancid smell.