Hemp drinks are increasingly gaining popularity due to their unique taste and health benefits. There is a clear distinction between hemp seed and hemp plant, the latter typically containing cannabinoids, like CBD. In this blog, we will explore some of the most frequently asked questions about hemp drinks, the distinction between hemp seed and hemp plants, and providing you with clear and straightforward answers. Let’s dive in!
1. What Are Hemp Drinks?
Hemp drinks that use hemp seeds are an innovative beverage category that captures the essence of the hemp seed—a versatile ingredient known for its rich nutritional profile. The beverages leverage the unique properties of the hemp seed, which are harnessed to develop diverse drink options, ranging from milks to ready-to-drink cold brews. Notably rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, these beverages provide a health-conscious alternative to traditional animal-derived milk products. The applications of hemp seed drinks extend beyond just nutrition; they also cater to varied dietary needs, being free from dairy and soy, and are therefore ideal for vegans and those with allergies.
In addition, hemp seed drinks bring an earthy and nutty flavor profile that sets them apart from other plant-based drinks. This flavor is naturally appealing to those who opt for more organic or whole-food-based diets. Moreover, their adaptability allows them to be paired with cereals, smoothies, and even in culinary creations such as soups and dressings, thus broadening their utility in kitchens.
These types of hemp drinks are utilizing hemp seeds, which typically contain no cannabinoids like THC and CBD. On the flip side, hemp drinks can also come from hemp plant. The hemp plant is what contains a range of cannabinoids, most prominently, CBD. CBD, a phytochemical praised for its potential wellness benefits, such as stress reduction and inflammation modulation. These types of hemp drinks have become a focal point in discussions about innovative ways to integrate plant-derived compounds into daily lifestyles.
2. Are Hemp Drinks Legal?
The short answer is yes, in many jurisdictions around the world, hemp drinks are legal. Hemp seed is federally legal because the seeds used in these beverages naturally contain no cannabinoids, the compounds that consist of CBD, THC and others. When it comes to hemp that naturally contains cannabinoids, like CBD and range of others, the legality becomes more complex. Hemp can be extracted in many fashions, you may have heard the terms full-spectrum, broad-spectrum and isolate. All these methods are different methods of extraction, each of which retains the cannabinoid content in different levels. We broke down the difference of these extractions in a recent blog so you can best understand which is best for you.
It’s vital to recognize that while the cultivation and sale of industrial hemp is permitted under federal law in places like the United States, local regulations can still vary significantly. Some areas enforce stricter guidelines regarding the sale and consumption of hemp plant products, so it is always prudent to stay informed on the legalities specific to your region. These state-by-state legalities are due to hemp plant extracts potentially containing the psychoactive cannabinoid, THC.
Recently, there has been a boom in hemp-derived THC products that do have psychoactive effects. It is important to distinguish that whether the products you are planning to purchase, whether they are hemp-derived or marijuana-derived, you ensure that they are THC-free if you are looking for a non-psychoactive experience. If you are looking for a hemp drink that contains no cannabinoids, hemp seeds are your friend! To better understand hemp-derived THC products and over hemp regulations in the United States, we wrote this blog and many others to make sure you are educated in the market.
3. How Do Hemp Drinks Taste?
The taste of hemp seed drinks can best be described as naturally nutty with a creamy undertone, offering a subtly sweet and earthy flavor. This unique tasting profile is due to its origin—the hemp seed—and the minimal processing the seeds undergo. For many, the nutty flavor is an acquired taste; however, once accustomed, it offers a refreshing variety from typical plant-based options. This flavor base has also proven versatile, allowing for blending with other flavors and ingredients to suit personal palates or culinary experiments. For example, using hemp milk in smoothies can introduce a mild yet rich texture, complementing both fruits and vegetables. Coffee enthusiasts have found that adding hemp milk from hemp seeds offers a creamy, nutty factor that elevates their morning brew, adding a novel twist on the classic latte.
Hemp drinks using hemp plant extracts have more of a floral, bitter taste. The hemp plant comes from the hops family, so it doesn't take much to achieve that bitter flavor. You can find inspiration from recipes that we provide for all our hemp-derived CBD seltzers as well.
4. What Are the Health Benefits?
Hemp seed drinks stand out not only for their flavor profile but also for their nutritional offerings. They possess a rich concentration of essential fatty acids, notably omega-3 and omega-6, which are pivotal for maintaining cardiovascular health. This balance of fatty acids is more aligned with what is ideal for the human body compared to several other oils. Moreover, hemp drinks are a plant-based source of complete proteins, encompassing all nine essential amino acids, making them eminently beneficial for muscle repair and cognitive functions.
Hemp drinks derived from hemp plants with CBD offer ‘an array of potential wellness benefits’, potentially including decreased anxiety and inflammation, and improved sleep quality. While scientific investigations are still validating these benefits extensively, anecdotal accounts reveal promising results for those incorporating CBD into their lifestyle. See what folks who have enjoyed Shimmerwood have to say about all our CBD seltzers!
5. Can Hemp Drinks Get You High?
A common misconception about hemp products is their ability to induce a psychoactive experience, but rest assured, hemp drinks cannot get you high. This is because they naturally lack significant levels of THC, the psychoactive element associated with marijuana. Instead, hemp seeds and hemp plants, focus on providing natural benefits without altering cognitive states.
Their safety and role in wellness are further highlighted in discussions about CBD products, some of which include full-spectrum or broad-spectrum oils containing merely trace amounts of THC as allowed by law. Consequently, these drinks offer a palatable means of engaging with the broader scope of cannabinoids found in the hemp plant without the psychoactive impacts.
6. How Are Hemp Drinks Made?
The production of hemp seed drinks typically begins with soaking hemp seeds in water, a process that encourages the extraction of their inherent nutrients and oils. From there, the softened seeds are blended into a smooth mixture, creating a base to which additional flavors or ingredients can be added, depending on the intended final product. Once blended, the mixture is strained to produce a fluid beverage that retains the maximal nutritional content without the unwanted seed solids. The hemp plant that contains cannabinoids like CBD has a different extraction method.
The hemp plant undergoes an extraction process where its water soluble solution can retain all its cannabinoids, predominantly CBD, or have some of them removed. Because the hemp flower contains a myriad of cannabinoids, it's important to make the distinction between extractions and what you are looking for. We break down the extraction process of hemp and who we recommend each solution for in our blog about alcohol-free alternatives like CBD seltzers.
7. Can They Be Used in Cooking?
Hemp seed drinks can be a delightful addition to many culinary creations. Their nutty and creamy flavor profile provides a robust base for recipes that require a milk substitute, such as in soups, baked goods, or even smoothies. When used in cooking, hemp drinks not only add flavor but also boost the nutritional value of your dishes with their rich omega fatty acid content and protein.
For instance, using hemp milk in pancakes or breads offers a unique twist and texture without sacrificing the lightness and moisture typically expected from these items. Additionally, hemp drinks can be used to create dressings or soups that benefit from their creamy texture, showcasing their versatility in the kitchen. As consumers increasingly seek out nutritious and sustainable alternatives, hemp drinks are proving a worthy option.
8. Are They Suitable for Everyone?
In general, hemp seed drinks are suitable for a wide array of dietary preferences, including vegan and gluten-free diets, due to their plant-based origins and natural ingredients. However, as with any product form, individual allergies or sensitivities can occur. Some people may have allergic reactions to hemp itself or additives used in flavored hemp drinks.
If you have specific health concerns or pre-existing conditions, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider prior to introducing hemp seed drinks into your diet. This step ensures that you can safely incorporate them without adverse interactions, especially if you are also consuming medications or have dietary restrictions to accommodate.
9. Are There Different Types of Hemp Drinks?
The world of hemp drinks presents a variety of options tailored to different tastes and preferences. Among these are hemp milks and hemp-infused beverages with CBD. Each type brings a distinctive taste experience and offers varied nutritional benefits appealing to different dietary needs and lifestyle goals.
For the adventurous, hemp beverages with CBD may feature unique combinations with fruits and spices like chai, ginger, or lime, providing exciting possibilities for those eager to explore more diverse flavors. Products like Shimmerwood’s Razz Lime and Ginger Orange capitalize on these infusions, blending full-bodied flavors with the refreshing sensation of seltzer, expanding the horizons of what a hemp drink can be.
10. How Do They Compare to Other Plant-Based Drinks?
Hemp seed drinks differentiate themselves from other plant-based beverages in several significant ways. Most notably, they serve as an impressive source of dietary proteins given their inherent inclusion of all essential amino acids, a feature not commonly found in plant-based drinks like almond or rice milk. Additionally, hemp milk contains the perfect 3:1 ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids, a healthy balance for heart support.
These attributes render hemp seed drinks ideal for consumers searching for nutritious options that don’t compromise on essential nutrients and do not contain cannabinoids. Ultimately, the nutritional edge and refreshing taste make hemp seed drinks a distinctive choice among plant-based options.
11. What to Look for When Buying?
Choosing the right hemp drink involves a careful review of the product label and ingredient list. The biggest distinction being is the drink using hemp seeds, or a hemp-extracts that contains cannabinoids. As consumer interest rises, certain products may include additives like sugars or preservatives, which could detract from the health benefits associated with pure hemp drinks. Therefore, it is advisable to select products that maintain transparency in their ingredients, showcasing organic, non-GMO offerings.
Furthermore, taking note of reputable suppliers is essential to ensure quality. Companies like Shimmerwood Beverages (not to toot our horn), which are dedicated to providing transparent and sustainably sourced products, offer a range of hemp-infused CBD drink options. Our meticulous quality control and sourcing standards guarantee a consistent and enjoyable experience with each sip, all backed by third party lab testing on our hemp and using whole ingredients from small businesses.
12. Can You Make Hemp Seed Drinks at Home?
Creating hemp seed drinks at home is both possible and rewarding, allowing you to customize recipes to fit your taste preferences and nutritional needs. The basic recipe involves blending hemp seeds with water, resulting in a creamy, nutrient-dense base that acts as a starting point. You can introduce sweeteners, spices, or other plant-based flavors to enhance taste according to your culinary aspirations.
Homemade hemp seed drinks can be crafted to eliminate any unwanted components or additives, ensuring a cleaner, more transparent beverage. This flexibility also offers the opportunity to experiment with flavors by adding fruits or herbs, making homemade hemp seed drinks a fun kitchen project that reflects personal tastes and dietary ambitions.