The journey toward integrating sensible practices and healthy alternatives into our food systems is a collaborative one. The Hemp Feed Coalition marks a momentous occasion with the FDA-CVM’s recommendation and AAFCO Ingredient Definition Committee’s (IDC) tentative approval of Hemp Seed Meal for laying hens.
This milestone is more than a step forward in our mission—it is a leap toward positively reshaping the agricultural landscape.
Our heartfelt thanks go to the extraordinary group of partners whose commitment has been pivotal to our success. One of those key partners is IND HEMP, whose generous contribution of capital resources, high-quality hemp seed meal samples, and manpower went above and beyond. IND CEO, Morgan Tweet, who also serves as our esteemed Executive Director, donated countless hours of her time specifically to this application, conversations with FDA, CVM, AAFCO, as well as being the key contact with all of our incredible partners. We at the HFC simply could not have succeeded without her tireless and selfless efforts. Thank you, Morgan. IND HEMP truly embodies the spirit of “paying it forward,” setting a sterling example for collaboration and community support in the agricultural sector.
Healthy Oil Seeds has also played a crucial role in supporting the Hemp Feed Coalition’s efforts to explore hemp seed meal as a feed option for egg-laying chickens. Their donation of hemp seed meal samples has been invaluable, showcasing their pioneering approach to the hemp industry. This collaboration highlights their commitment to agricultural innovation and sustainability, helping to pave the way for hemp’s acceptance in animal feed markets.
Another key player, Victory Hemp, has significantly contributed to the Hemp Feed Coalition’s initiatives, particularly in the exploration of hemp-based feeds. Their engagement in providing critical resources and expertise has been instrumental in advancing research on hemp as a sustainable feed ingredient. As a forward-thinking leader in the hemp industry, Victory Hemp’s partnership underscores a mutual dedication to agricultural innovation and the development of environmentally friendly feed solutions.
Beyond IND, Healthy Oil Seeds, and Victory Hemp, we received incredible support from hemp seed meal processors throughout the US and Canada. I would be remiss if I did not mention our other vital contributors. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our valued partners for their generous support and provision of samples, enhancing our collaborative endeavors, as our recent success would simply not be possible without ALL of these supporters. A special thanks to Kentucky Hemp Works, Dion Oakes (High Mountain Pure), Hemp Production Services, Blue Sky Hemp Ventures, SLV Hemp, Hempco Canada, Colorado Hemp Works, Hemp Acres, Down on the Farm, and Minnesota Hemp Farms. Their commitment and contributions significantly bolster our mission and endeavors, illustrating the power of partnership in driving progress and innovation within the industry. Thank you, and may God bless each one of these contributors.
In addition to our processor partners, we at the HFC wish to extend our appreciation to Eurofins Food Chemistry Testing. Their development of a new analytical method (LC/MS method) for cannabinoid potency and their unwavering scientific rigor provided the solid foundation necessary for the approval process.
Navigating uncharted territory, we pioneered the path for hemp seed meal in animal feed. We faced the challenge of establishing safe cannabinoid levels without precedent and emerged successful, paving the way for future endeavors and a shorter pathway to approval for future applications. This landmark approval sets the stage for the next Hemp Feed Coalition ventures—applications for beef cattle and equine feed. The groundwork has been laid, the process streamlined, and the future looks promising, thanks to the lessons learned and data gathered through this initial application.
My personal vision, shaped by my roots in a multigenerational farming family, is of a world where farmers are empowered with choices and communities are revitalized through farming practices that allow producers of all sizes to thrive vs. survive. A byproduct of this is the creation of hope, which is desperately needed to encourage our younger generation to participate, as well as allow those already entrenched in this lifestyle to persevere. Hemp, with its myriad of uses and applications, is at the forefront of this agricultural evolution.
As we celebrate this victory, we also embrace the broader implications for our food systems, our farmers, and the environment. The Coalition is committed to fostering the growth of hemp as a staple in animal nutrition.
Still, the Hemp Feed Coalition requires more great partners to continue to move forward in this transformative journey. We need you to be a part of the solution! Contact us at the Hemp Feed Coalition today to get involved in the next ruminant and equine applications.
The Hemp Feed Coalition seeks researchers, collaborators, and volunteers to champion our cause. The Coalition is more than an entity; it’s a movement. Your participation will further our collective mission and help build a sustainable future in farming.
Graciously,
Andrew Bish
President, Hemp Feed Coalition
If you are looking to obtain some quality hemp seed products for yourself or your animals, here is a list of our HSM contributors and their respective webpages. Please support them, as they have supported us at the Hemp Feed Coalition:
IND Hemp: https://indhemp.com/
Healthy Oilseeds: https://healthyoilseeds.com/
Victory Hemp: https://www.victoryhempfoods.com/
Kentucky Hemp Works: https://kentuckyhempworks.com/
Dion Oakes (High Mountain Pure): https://highmountianpure.com/
Hemp Production Services: https://hpsfood.ca/
Blue Sky Hemp Ventures: https://www.blueskyhempventures.com/
SLV Hemp: https://slvhemp.com/
Hempco Canada: https://hempcocanada.com/
Colorado Hemp Works: https://coloradohempworks.com/
Hemp Acres: https://www.hempacresusa.com/
Down on the Farm https://downonthefarm.biz/
Minnesota Hemp Farms: https://mnhempfarms.com/
