Hemp Protein
Hemp protein is made by milling and defatting hemp seeds into a powder. It contains all nine essential amino acids but in low ratios, plus useful amounts of fiber, omega-3 fats and minerals. Hemp is usually a fiber-and-nutrition supplement first and a protein supplement second.
Why It Matters
Hemp protein is not the right tool for hitting a high daily protein target. The protein density is low (around 50 percent by weight) and the leucine content is too low to maximize muscle protein synthesis on its own. Where hemp shines is as a 'whole food' protein blended into smoothies for its fiber and fatty acid profile.
How to Spot It on a Label
Hemp protein is usually unflavored and looks slightly greenish. It is high in fiber (8 to 14g per serve) and clearly lower in protein density than pea or soy. Hemp blends usually combine hemp with pea or rice to lift the leucine and overall protein content.
Examples from real products
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