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FSANZ has received an application to approve the use of Cannabis sativa with low levels of tetrahydrocannabinol, in both seed and seed oil, as a food.

Currently all Cannabis species are forbidden to be added to foods, or to be presented as foods. However industrial hemp has been cultivated as a source of fibre, foods, cosmetics and clothing. This form of hemp has no, or very low levels of, THC (up to 0.5%). THC provides the psychoactive effect of hemp used for recreational purposes. In fact, the FSANZ website states that hempseed contains protein and many vitamins and minerals, like many nuts and seeds, but is much higher in omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids than other nuts and seeds, except for flaxseed. Low THC hemp in food products may provide a useful alternative dietary source of many nutrients and polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly omega-3 fatty acids. Only small quantities of whole hempseed or hempseed oil need be consumed to meet the adult Adequate Intake for alpha-linoleic acid (an essential omega-3 fatty acid). Read more here

Last Updated on Friday, 20 May 2011 15:37