Hemp is Australia’s newest superfood after being legalised

HEMP muesli, smoothies, muffins and slices are set to be Australia’s newest superfood, but don’t expect to get a buzz.

Melisa Alizzi and Romana Camillo, with children Emmeline, 9, and Luella, 6, have released food products containing hemp, which will be legal to consume in Australia from November 12. Picture: Alex Coppel.

SAY high to hemp.

Hemp muesli, smoothies, muffins and slices are set to be Australia’s newest superfood, but don’t expect to get a buzz.

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From November 12, it will be legal to consume hemp food products in Australia and New Zealand after more than 15 years of lobbying from the hemp industry.

However, products can’t carry any references to marijuana or cannabis or make hallucinogenic claims.

Melisa Alizzi and Romana Camillo sample their goods. Picture: Alex Coppel.

Previously, no species of cannabis could not be sold as a food or added to foods because federal and state health ministers were concerned they could affect roadside drug testing.

However, in April the ministers ruled low-THC hemp seeds could be consumed safely.

THC stands for tetrahydrocannabinol, the chemical responsible for marijuana’s hallucinogenic effects.

Hemp Foods Australia CEO Paul Benhaim said hemp seeds were “exceptionally rich in healthy fats, protein and various minerals”.

“With a mild, nutty flavour, hemp is a delicious and nutritious addition to many foods,” he said.

Australian hemp food producers Melisa Alizzi and Romana Camillo, from The Wild brand, are among the hundreds of businesses set to release new products.

Ms Alizzi said hemp seed was “about to explode into the health food scene in Australia”.

“The health properties are so high that it is probably one of the few super foods that lives up to its name, not only as a source of food but as a crop for farmers,” she said.

“We will see it on cafe menus, in smoothies, muffins, cookies — not the hallucinogenic kind — cakes and vegan products.”