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Ingredients in Focus is Food Dive's bite-sized column that highlights interesting developments. In the material sector.
The potential of hemp protein has been put into the spotlight with the launch of a new plant-based chicken alternative from plant-based milk company Elmhurst 1925.
TerraMeat is made entirely from hemp grain flour. Consumers create their own “chicken cutlets” by mixing the hemp flour with a pre-packaged spice blend, water, and oil, and then cooking the mixture in the microwave. Elmhurst is famous for: Known for its clean-label plant-based milks and creamers, the new chicken product marks the company’s first foray into the plant-based meat market.
Hemp protein is a product made from hemp kernels, which are extracted from hemp seeds and pressed into a fine powder. Depending on whether the seeds are processed with or without the hull, the color, fiber content, and flavor are affected.
The higher the hull content, the more fiber it contains and the more intense the flavor it can impart to the powder. Manufacturers and individuals can use this powder as an ingredient in plant-based meats, smoothies, baked goods, and more.
Plant-based proteins are sometimes considered as substitutes for whey or soy proteins.
According to Elmhurst, hemp protein contains all nine essential amino acids, making it “one of the few plant-based proteins that provides a complete amino acid profile.”
This protein also has a strong, earthy, nutty flavor that can affect the taste of the product.
“We chose to use hemp as the base for TerraMeat because it leaves the cutlets tender and juicy without the need for additional filler ingredients. Plus, it’s highly digestible, packed with super amino acids, and packed with protein and iron,” Elmhurst said.
Hemp is Legalized by FDA It was released for industrial use in 2018. This drought-resistant crop was historically grown for its fiber. Industrial hemp comes from the same plant as marijuana, but has little or no THC.
Industrial hemp seeds contain 25-35% protein, fiber, iron, and the short-chain omega-3 fatty acid ALA.
The global hemp protein market is expected to witness robust growth over the next few years. According to a recent report by Research and Markets, it was valued at $604.1 billion in 2022 and is expected to surpass $1 trillion by 2029.
A key driver of growth is the growing number of consumers looking for clean sources of protein in plant-based diets. The report also says the ingredient’s complete amino acid profile and lack of cholesterol or saturated fat make it appealing to consumers.
