A comprehensive overview of cannabis nutrient compounds: alternatives and challenges

Aleksandrov, Mihail and Maksimova, Viktorija and Brchina, Irena and Filipova, Daniela and Gjorgieva Ackova, Darinka and Smilkov, Katarina (2024) A comprehensive overview of cannabis nutrient compounds: alternatives and challenges. In: Congress on Food Quality and Safety, Health and Nutrition - NUTRICON 2024, 05-07 June 2024, Ohrid.

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Abstract

Cannabis is not a typical and famous food additive, but in recent years the
increasing availability of legal-market cannabis products has raised many
questions about the potential benefits or challenges regarding the use of hemp
seeds and hemp-derived products. “Hemp” refers to low ∆9-tetrahydrocannabinol
(∆9-THC) cultivars of Cannabis sativa L., while the term “marijuana” is used for
cultivars with high levels of ∆9-THC, the primary psychoactive cannabinoid found
in the plant. Although hemp and marijuana belong to the same genus and species,
they differ in terms of chemical and genetic composition, production practices,
product uses, and regulatory status. This research aimed to make a comprehensive
overview of cannabis nutrient composition, alternatives, and challenges since it
has the potential to provide significant benefits by promoting overall health and
well-being, but also aspects related to food security that should not be neglected
since they are essential for the safe supply of cannabis-based products on the
market.
Scientific data on the beneficial effects of non-psychoactive cannabinoids on the
human body have increased interest in foods containing hemp components. A
diversity of commercial food products can be made from cannabis and hemp
extracts, using distillates and isolates, obtained by different manufacturing
processes. For this purpose, we consulted more than 20 original scientific
studies, as well as a literature review (for a period of the last five years), through
different scientific databases (PubMed, SCOPUS, and ResearchGate), on hemp
seed chemical composition. These studies have demonstrated its macro and
micronutrient composition. The hemp seed contains around 25% of the proteins
and it provides all nine essential amino acids, making a complete protein source.
The two main proteins in hemp seed are edestin and albumin, both high-quality
and easily digested proteins. In addition, hemp seed has exceptionally high levels
of arginine. Hemp seeds contain over 30% oil rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty
acids, among which are two essential fatty acids, linoleic acid (18:2 omega-6) and
α-linolenic acid (18:3 omega-3). The omega-6 to omega-3 ratio in hemp seed oil is
normally between 2 : 1 and 3 : 1, which is optimal for cardiovascular health, brain
function, and inflammation regulation. Considerable amounts of dietary fibers,
vitamins (especially vitamin E), and minerals (Mg, P, K, Fe, and Zn) are also present
in hemp seed. Controversially, cannabis is often thought of for its psychoactive
properties owed to its content of a variety of phytochemicals, including terpenes
(cannabinoids) and flavonoids, which can provide significant health benefits
with acceptable side effects, so the production technologies for hemp seed and
derivatives should be selected with caution.
The advantages of incorporating hemp seeds and hemp-derived products that
add to a balanced and nutritious diet by providing valuable nutrients and health
benefits outweigh the potential disadvantages for most individuals. The legal
status and regulations surrounding hemp and hemp-derived products vary
by region. So, the regions where industrial hemp is legalized as an agricultural
commodity and hemp seed is included in foods are promoting the expansion
of the hemp food industry. It’s important to ensure these products are provided
from reputable sources and comply with local laws and regulations. However,
it’s essential to note that individual dietary needs can vary and it’s advisable to
consult a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized guidance
to utilize the benefits of hemp seed products.

Item Type:	Conference or Workshop Item (Poster)
Subjects:	Medical and Health Sciences > Other medical sciences
Divisions:	Faculty of Medical Science
Depositing User:	Viktorija Maksimova
Date Deposited:	19 Aug 2024 11:16
Last Modified:	19 Aug 2024 11:16
URI:	https://eprints.ugd.edu.mk/id/eprint/34547

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