Profile
Welcome to new Scottish Food Guide Member Hemp It Up.
Ali and John farm in Angus: rearing cattle, cultivating barley… and growing hemp, in rotation. Scottish hemp actually has a history in the mists of time in the production of fibres, ropes, and cloth. I am sure its edible attributes were also used as the canny Scot wouldn’t miss a trick. More recently there have been collaborations with the Rowett Institute to support its resurgence as a healthy fast-growing crop.
Hemp has a multitude of uses and nutritional benefits and has been used since ancient times for its versatility in producing quality paper, useful textiles and nutritious food, not to mention all sorts of other uses from their adaptable fibres. Here we are particularly food focussed however a read through their weblink will open your eyes to the wonders of hemp, including their beautiful natural soaps, and indeed it has been featured recently in a number of newspaper articles you may have seen.
Hemp can offer both delicious flavours and numerous health benefits from its high nutritional value with immense potential in recipes for tasty dishes. Look out next month for some recipes in the recipe section of Scottish Food Guide in addition to the recipe suggestions already on their website.
Currently their products are:
- A range of delicious Extra Virgin Hemp Oils, original & flavoured, ideal for cooking and salads.
- Hemp Protein: finely milled on-farm to produce a velvety smooth protein powder, it is a complete protein containing essential amino acids for your body. Ideal for complimenting cereals, smoothies, bread and oatcakes.
- Hemp Hearts: de-hulled seeds, nutty and soft, they are perfect for sprinkling on salads, baking and smoothies.
I recommend these local hemp products to your larder repertoire as nourishing, appetising, ethical, and sustainably produced ingredients. Embrace its comeback to Scotland and enjoy.
The newly launched soap bars are also available online and at indy shops and farm shops such as nearby Peel Farm Coffee & Crafts Farm Shop, and Denhead Farm Shop.
Hemp is an amazing plant and I can understand their fascination. It thrives in Angus and grows tall, waving in the breeze. The University of Aberdeen research is collaborating with Scotland’s first commercial cold pressed hemp oil production and John and Alison Easson are proud to be part of the inaugural Scottish Hemp Growers. Farm visits by arrangement.
photos credited to Hemp It Up & WB
Here’s an excellent article on hemp by Ruth Watson…
