2.5. Processing of hemp seeds

Key learning outcomes

• To learn about the basic steps of the hemp seeds processing

• To familiarise with the hemp oil extraction

• To understand the various potential processes for processing the hemp seed and all the potential products

As mentioned earlier, hemp is cultivated either for fibre or seed production, or a combination of both. In this case, hemp is known as a dual-purpose crop. For the utilisation of both fibres and seeds, compromises in plant physiology, harvesting date, plant maturity, and overall yield are inevitable.

While specialised equipment that can harvest grain and fibres in one step exists, most dual-purpose hemp is harvested in two steps. In a primary harvesting step, the mature seeds are collected using a combine harvester, and in a secondary step, the remaining stalks are cut with a sickle cutter.

Grain hemp is typically harvested when the female plants reach a maturity of 70%. The plants are cut using a combine harvester equipped with draper heads. After the seeds are unloaded from the harvesting equipment, they should be cleaned to remove unwanted material and impurities. Subsequently, the seeds are dried by aeration within 6 hours, ensuring the temperature does not exceed 50°C. A moisture content of 8-9% is desirable for storage to reduce the chances of sprouting.

The processing of hemp seeds involves a series of steps designed to extract valuable components like oil, protein, and fibre, and prepare the seeds for various uses, such as food, supplements, or industrial products.