Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) will now permit the sale of low-THC hemp seed products as food.

The decision has been welcomed by hemp wholesaler, Hemp Foods Australia, who say it will contribute positively to Australia’s farming industry and will create jobs.

“This is another positive step in the years long work and investment in achieving legalisation for omega-3 rich hemp as a food in Australia,” said Hemp Foods Australia Chief Executive Officer, Paul Benhaim.

Hemp Australia say FSANZ’s decision is key in encouraging ministers to approve the plant for human consumption at the Australia and New Zealand Ministerial Forum on Food Regulation on 28 April 2017.

The international market for hemp foods is currently estimated to be worth AUD $1 billion annually. It is expected the demand for Australian hemp foods will quadruple in the next few years.

Hemp can be used as a form of flour, oil and protein powder. It is described as being rich in omegas, amino acids, vitamins and minerals.

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