Hemp (Cannabis Sativa) is an annual plant native to east Asia but now grown worldwide, with different parts of the plant being used for a multitude of purposes. Hemp seeds, also called hemp hearts, are the seeds of the hemp plant. Technically nuts, these small seeds have a unique earthy, nutty, mildly sweet flavor.

Densely nutritious, hemp seeds are rich in omega-6 and omega-3 essential fatty acids at a healthy ratio of 3:1. Gamma linolenic acid (GLA) is an especially beneficial form of omega-6 found in the seeds. They also contain high-quality easily digestible protein, comprising 20 amino acids, including branched-chain amino acids and the nine essential amino acids. Hemp seeds are a good source of both soluble and insoluble dietary fiber, manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, copper and vitamins E, K and some B vitamins. Additionally, the seeds are a good source of phytosterols and a source of some phenolic and polyphenolic compounds.*