What is hemp protein?
Proteins — the building blocks of life and an essential part of a healthy human diet.
But not all proteins are created equal. There’s dairy protein, meat-based protein and plant-based protein (to name a few) and they all vary in their processing, nutrients and amino acid content.
Within the “plant-based” protein category, you’ll find the humble hemp protein.
So, what is hemp protein?
What are the benefits of hemp protein?
And how does it stack up next to the alternatives?
What is hemp protein?
Hemp seeds are naturally high in protein, claiming up to 25% of its total calorie content.
While we can’t speak for every product on the market, our hemp protein is made from 100% raw, cold-pressed hemp seeds. The hemp seeds are milled to create a fine powder which can be added to drinks, smoothies and main meals for an extra boost of nutrients. When hemp protein is unflavoured (like ours) it boasts an earthy, neutral flavour.
But what’s particularly impressive about hemp protein is its nutrients.
Hemp protein is overflowing with iron, magnesium, zinc, vitamins, antioxidants and insoluble fibre (which aren’t often found in animal-based alternatives). Hemp also contains the ideal ratio of Omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids — making it the single best source of Omega on the planet.
What’s more, hemp protein contains all 20 amino acids (compounds our body needs to build muscle). That’s an impressive feat considering most animal-based proteins only contain the 9 essential amino acids.
So, how does 100% hemp protein stack up against the alternatives?
|
Whey (dairy) protein |
Other plant-based protein (like pea or soy) |
Hemp protein |
|
|
Amino acids |
Often contain all 9 essential amino acids (such as leucine, lysine and valine). |
Plant proteins don’t always have the complete array of amino acids. |
Hemp protein is the plant-based exception — boasting a whopping 20 amino acids. |
|
Nutrients |
Often aren’t focused on providing other nutrients — just the amino acid content. |
Plant proteins are often abundant in other nutrients, like iron, magnesium and zinc. |
Hemp protein contains magnesium, iron, zinc, 16% dietary fibre, antioxidants and the ideal ratio of essential fatty acids. |
|
Processing |
Often undergo chemical extraction processes to draw out the protein. |
Often undergo chemical extraction processes to draw out the protein. |
Because hemp is naturally rich in protein, it doesn’t need to undergo any chemical extraction. Just milling and sifting techniques. |
What is hemp protein good for?
The benefits of hemp protein are plentiful. Incorporating it into your diet can…
- Build and repair muscle tissue
- Increase energy levels
- Aid digestion
- Boost the immune system
- Reduce inflammation
- Strengthen hair, skin and nails
- Improve bone health
- Aid weight management
At Australian Primary Hemp, we’re one of Australia’s largest producers of Aussie grown hemp. And even for us — the industry leaders — the benefits of hemp continue to surprise us.
Our hemp protein is made from 100% hemp using a combination of milling and sifting techniques. It’s Australian made, sustainably farmed, vegan and the perfect plant-based protein supplement.
Written by Samantha, an ethical copywriter from the Mornington Peninsula. She’s a former environmental scientist, outdoor enthusiast and the founder of Copy Circle.