A Welsh agri-food startup is turning hemp seeds into a creamy, allergen-free ingredient for plant-based dairy alternatives like yoghurts and cheeses. Most plant-based milks and yoghurts rely on soy, nuts, or oats, which can trigger allergies or have a bland texture. Hemp seeds are rich in protein and healthy fats, but their strong flavour and gritty texture have kept them out of mainstream food products. This project applies advanced food processing techniques—such as optimised milling and stabilisation—to improve the taste, creaminess, and shelf stability of hemp-based ingredients. If successful, PROHEMPOTIC will supply food manufacturers with a versatile, nut- and soy-free base for dairy alternatives. For consumers, this means more nutritious, allergen-safe options. For farmers in mid-Wales, it creates a new income stream from a low-input, regenerative crop that improves soil health. The project also reduces the food industry’s environmental footprint by replacing imported soy and nuts with a locally grown protein source. The result is a practical shift in supply chains: a sustainable, home-grown ingredient that quietly makes everyday foods healthier without requiring consumers to change their habits.
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Our project is driving innovation in sustainable food production through cutting-edge research and development of sustainable and nutritious food ingredients and products. We are exploring hemp's potential to transform the food industry by creating a hempseed ingredient for food formulations and related high-quality, plant-based dairy alternatives. By optimizing production methods, we aim to deliver premium food products that are not only delicious and functional but also free from common allergens like soy and nuts. Hemp is a versatile and nutrient-dense crop, offering significant benefits for both health and the environment. Hemp seeds are an allergen-free plant-based source of proteins, healthy fats, and essential nutrients. Locally and regeneratively grown hempseeds also offer farmers an opportunity to diversify their income whilst supporting a sustainable food system. Award-winning agri-food startup PROHEMPOTIC, based in mid-Wales, will work with UK food processing and development experts to apply advanced food processing techniques to enhance the taste, texture, stability, and functionality of hempseeds. By leveraging the creamy texture and nutritional richness of hempseeds, we aim to develop a versatile ingredient that offers both functionality and health benefits. The new hempseed ingredients and products will expand PROHEMPOTIC's product portfolio and be offered to food manufacturers/brands, retailers, food service providers, and consumers to improve the nutritional quality of their products and diets. This project represents the future of sustainable food innovation, blending cutting-edge science with the natural benefits of hemp. By advancing these developments, we are committed to promoting healthier lifestyles while reducing the environmental footprint of the food industry.
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