Although hemp seed ingredients such as hemp protein, hemp seed oil, and hemp hearts have been available for human consumption for over two decades, they have not been approved for use in animal feed. However, thanks to the hard work of the Hemp Feed Coalition (HFC), this is about to change. The nonprofit organization has been tirelessly advocating for the federal approval of hemp grain products in animal feed, with the goal of promoting animal health and supporting the growth of the hemp industry. And their efforts have finally paid off.
At the recent Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) Annual Meeting in San Antonio, Texas, 48 states voted to approve Hemp Seed Meal (HSM) for use in chicken feed. This decision follows the recommendation for approval from the FDA-Center for Veterinary Medicine (FDA-CVM), as well as prior consent from the Ingredient Definition Committee and AAFCO Board. With this latest approval, the tentative definition of Hemp Seed Meal as a protein and fat source for laying hens will be adopted into the AAFCO official publication later this year and can be used commercially immediately.
Morgan Tweet, Executive Director of the Hemp Feed Coalition and CEO of Montana-based IND HEMP, the leading industrial hemp processor, expressed her excitement about this achievement, stating, “With the passing of this new definition, HFC can officially put the feather in our cap as the first and only organization that has successfully walked the federal path to get our foot in the door with animal feed.” She also acknowledged the support of US hemp grain processing partners, the dedicated board of directors, and scientific partners in making this possible. “It took all of us over the last four years with an unwavering commitment to bring this nutritious product to market. We’re ready to get to work on the next ingredient and next species,” she added.
The approval of Hemp Seed Meal for use in chicken feed is a significant milestone for the hemp industry. Processors can now include HSM as a source of protein and fat in chicken feed, with a maximum inclusion rate of 20%. HSM is a highly nutritious ingredient, containing essential vitamins, minerals, healthy oils, and a complete protein profile, similar to soy and canola. Research has also shown that hens fed with hemp seed meal lay eggs enriched with essential fatty acids and other beneficial nutrients, resulting in improved egg quality. Furthermore, the safety of HSM has been validated through FDA-CVM’s rigorous evaluation, providing assurance to formulators and feed mills that it is a safe and viable protein and fat source. Data has also confirmed that any potential cannabinoid contaminants do not transfer over to human food products.
Trey Riddle, chief strategy officer at IND HEMP, believes that this is a significant step forward for the hemp industry. “For years, farmers and industry members have worked together to show that Hemp Seed Meal is entirely safe and nutritious for animals,” he says. This approval not only benefits the hemp industry but also highlights the potential health benefits of incorporating hemp seed meal into animal feed.