As a passionate advocate for sustainable product choices, I’ve always been intrigued by plant-based milk alternatives. Among them, one of my absolute favorites is hemp milk.
When we think of hemp, a few things naturally come to mind. Besides whether hemp milk gives you the marijuana high (spoiler alert, no, it doesn’t!), people are also curious about what hemp milk tastes like and how healthy it is.
You are missing out if you’ve been looking for a nutritious and environmentally friendly dairy-free milk and have yet to try hemp milk! You might also be missing out on a great milk alternative for your baby.
I created this article to be your ultimate hemp milk resource – I leave no seed unshelled (pardon the pun!).
What is hemp milk?
Hemp milk is a dairy-milk alternative made from hemp seeds. The seeds, derived from the plant Cannabis sativa, are soaked until they swell and then blended with water until the mixture has a milky appearance.
Commercially made hemp milk involves adding emulsifiers, stabilizers, sweeteners, flavors, and an ultra-high temperature treatment to extend its shelf-life. I recommend making your own at home so that you know what’s in your milk. I share my recipe at the end of this article.
What does hemp milk taste like?
Hemp milk has a nutty flavor like that of roasted nuts or sunflower seeds with a subtle hint of sweetness.
How about its texture?
If you’ve ever had other plant-based milks like almond milk, you’ll know that they can be pretty thin and watery. Unlike other plant-based milk, hemp has a mouth-watering, smooth, and creamy texture.
Does hemp milk contain THC?
THC is the abbreviation for tetrahydrocannabinol, the highly addictive psychoactive ingredient found in marijuana and comes from Cannabis sativa flowers. Hemp milk is, however, derived from the plant’s seeds which do NOT contain detectable levels of THC. This means you can safely incorporate them into your diet. I can’t, however, make any promises that you won’t become addicted to the taste like me!
Hemp milk nutritional value
Table 1: Nutritional profile for 1 cup of unsweetened, unflavoured hemp milk
| Energy (calories) | 60 |
| Protein (g) | 3 |
| Total fat (g) | 4.5 |
| Carbohydrates (g) | 0 |
| Fibre (g) | 0 |
| Total sugars (g) | 0 |
| Calcium (mg) | 257 |
| Sodium (mg) | 110 |
| Potassium | 100 |
Is hemp milk allergy friendly?
Hemp milk is naturally free of many allergy sources, including soy, lactose, and gluten.
Is hemp milk a good protein source?
While hemp milk contains all the essential amino acids to be considered a proper protein source, the protein level is comparatively lower than dairy milk. If you’ve been advised by your doctor to consume a certain level of protein each day, there may be a better protein replacement than hemp milk. It is still, however, a healthy dairy-free alternative if the protein isn’t of concern.
What are the benefits of hemp milk?
One of the most common questions I get asked is, ‘What does hemp milk do for you?’ While the noticeable benefits are likely to be different for everyone, research indicates the following benefits from hemp milk:
Better sleep and blood pressure
Hemp seeds contain high levels of arginine, an amino acid that, when ingested, becomes nitric oxide. Nitric oxide helps to relax your blood vessels, lower blood pressure, and improve circulation, essential factors for a good night’s sleep.
Joint pain relief
Hemp seeds contain high levels of the omera-6 fatty acid gamma-linoleic. This acid reduces inflammation and has been linked to relieving rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
Healthier skin
Hemp is high in vitamin E and antioxidants, contributing to healthier skin by reducing oxidative stress. A study involving hemp seed oil was also shown to improve dermatitis.
Helps fight obesity
Studies indicate that using hemp seed products such as hemp seed flour instead of higher-calorie wheat flour products can help reduce weight gain. It can also help lower cholesterol levels.
Are there potential risks from consuming hemp milk?
Allergies to hemp milk, while uncommon, can occur. Everyone is different in how they react to food allergies, from skin rashes to anaphylaxis. If you’re prone to food allergies, it’s best to talk to your doctor before rushing out and grabbing some hemp milk.
To ensure your hemp milk is as ‘clean’ as possible, I recommend a homemade recipe over store-bought brands, which may have additives. However, some excellent hemp milk brands are readily available today. Try first to ensure you like it.
What makes hemp milk eco-friendly?
It has a lighter environmental impact
As with all plant-based milk, hemp milk has a lighter impact than dairy on the environment regarding greenhouse gas emissions, water use, and land resources.
Compared to other plant milk, hemp milk sits above soy milk in water use but uses less than almond milk.
Unlike many crops, hemp can also be produced without pesticides. Additionally, hemp has its own insecticidal properties.
Multi end-use products
One of my favorite things about hemp is that all parts of the plant can be used – this makes it superior to other plant-based milk crops.
Rather than the plant being grown for one purpose (i.e., hemp milk), we can also develop other products. Typically, the seeds are used for milk and hemp oil production. In contrast, the stalk and roots are used for commercial items like paper, clothing, and insulation.
Carbon sequestration
All plants can sequester carbon, removing and storing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Hemp has the upper hand because it is one of the fastest-growing plants in the world and can capture up to twice as other plants in a single year.
Is a superior cover crop
Hemp has an extensive root system which helps improve soil structure and reduce weed pressure for the next crop.
Frequently asked hemp milk questions
Is hemp milk vegan friendly?
Yes! Hemp milk is one of the best vegan milk options available.
Is hemp milk good in coffee?
You will find hemp milk a creamy option if you’re a plant-based milk coffee drinker. It is more comparable to soy milk than oat or almond milk.
Like all plant-based milk, hemp milk is still at risk of splitting in a hot coffee. I recommend heating it slightly rather than adding it cold.
Can I cook with hemp milk?
Because of its creamy texture and largely neutral taste, I use hemp milk in everything from cereals, coffee, smoothies, cakes, savory dishes, and even as a refreshing drink on its own.
Can I drink hemp milk daily?
A daily dose of hemp milk is a great way to provide your body with essential amino acids, heart-healthy omega fats, and essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin E, sodium, phosphorus, magnesium, and calcium.
If you’re looking for a low-calorie, tree nut-free, gluten-free, and lactose-free milk alternative to more commonly readily available animal and plant-based milk, hemp milk may be for you!
Does hemp milk contain hormones?
Hemp milk is animal hormone-free, meaning that it won’t disrupt the role of estrogen or insulin in the body, unlike most dairy milk.
How to make hemp milk at home
I usually make 1 liter of milk at a time, which lasts up to 5 days in the fridge (depending on how much I’m using).
I typically go for an unsweetened blend, which includes 2 basic ingredients: organic hulled hemp seeds and filtered water.
Steps to making homemade hemp milk
- Add ¼ cup of hulled hemp seeds to 1 ½ cups of water and stand aside for about 10 minutes. You can adjust the amount of water depending on how thick/creamier you want your milk to be).
- Use a high-speed blender to blend the mixture for about 1 minute (or until well combined).
- Transfer to a sealed container and refrigerate.
That’s it! Talk about one of the easiest DIY milk recipes there is!
Do I need to strain homemade hemp milk?
You can strain your hemp milk if desired, but it isn’t typically necessary.
What else can I add to my homemade hemp milk?
One of the things that I love about homemade hemp milk is that you can adjust the flavor to your liking.
Feeling like chocolate milk? Add a pinch of sea salt, ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a tablespoon of cocoa powder and maple syrup.
More than just a milk alternative
Hemp milk isn’t just a milk alternative; it’s a nutritional powerhouse. Its unique flavor, creamy texture, and health benefits make it a great addition to your daily routine.
Whether you’re looking to diversify your diet, cut back on dairy, or embrace a more eco-friendly lifestyle, hemp milk is a delicious and nutritious option worth exploring!
Cheers to a healthy start with the goodness of hemp milk!
