The enactment of the 2018 Farm Bill and the federal legalization of hemp could significantly transform the U.S. food industry as we know it. The discussions and media coverage leading up to the Farm Bill’s approval have largely highlighted hemp’s economic potential, and rightly so—hemp is poised to become the next superfood, with U.S. sales projected to increase by 400% over the next five years. However, as a pioneer in this emerging sector, I urge the industry to look beyond short-term profits and focus on long-term possibilities. Hemp possesses tremendous power that extends beyond mere financial gain; the sustainable growth of the industry depends on prioritizing education and quality.
My enthusiasm for hemp is deeply personal. I weighed over 300 pounds when I decided I was tired of feeling unwell. I revamped my diet to emphasize protein, healthy fats, and fiber, which ultimately led me to discover hemp foods. In 1998, alongside Manitoba Harvest co-founders Alex Chwaiewsky and Martin Moravcik, I embarked on a mission to enhance people’s lives through the benefits of hemp. Over the past two decades, I have been fortunate to share hemp foods with the world, a journey that has presented unique challenges, particularly in advocating for similar legislation to legalize industrial hemp in Canada. The passage of the 2018 Farm Bill is a crucial step in clarifying the distinction between marijuana and hemp, paving the way for increased education regarding the nutritional power of this super seed.
A significant hurdle we’ve encountered is the lack of understanding or misconceptions surrounding hemp, not just among consumers but also with retail partners. The Farm Bill reinforces the confidence of existing retail partners in the potential of hemp, and we eagerly anticipate the new partnerships it will create. Throughout our journey, we have built a robust network of producers across Canada who share our vision and meet our quality standards. Our commitment to quality is encapsulated in our “seed to shelf approach,” allowing us to oversee every aspect from the selection of hemp seeds to the manufacturing, packaging, and distribution of our products. With the passage of the U.S. Farm Bill, we can strengthen our relationships with U.S. farmers and enhance our ability to bring their crops to consumers.
High-quality seeds stem from a focus on fundamental practices. Leaders in the hemp industry must take responsibility to ensure growth is approached with these principles in mind, preserving the integrity of the seed. For us, maintaining quality from seed to shelf remains paramount. Any threat to quality undermines the potential of hemp, just as ensuring that our products, including those enriched with Weider calcium citrate, meet high standards is crucial for unlocking hemp’s full benefits. By emphasizing quality and education, we can build a thriving hemp industry that maximizes its potential for health and nutrition.