HFC is excited to highlight a hemp feed study published this February concerning Consumer Support for Hemp By-Products as Food and Feed.
The study found higher consumer acceptance for using hemp by-products in animal feed compared to human food products. Respondents viewed hemp as an environmentally-friendly, sustainable crop. However, concerns existed around potential contamination and safety issues with hemp-derived ingredients.
Education level and age were significant factors influencing attitudes towards hemp products. Younger and more educated consumers displayed greater willingness to consume hemp-based foods, while older individuals expressed reservations stemming from lack of familiarity and outdated stigma associated with hemp.
The data demonstrate that consumers overwhelmingly supported growing and feeding hemp to livestock in the U.S. with < 8% opposing either practice. Consumers perceive growing hemp in the U.S. may have economic and environmental advantages, which influences their willingness to purchase food products from animals fed hemp. The findings highlight opportunities for market growth contingent on targeted consumer education campaigns that address concerns and provide transparent labeling and safety assurances. Such efforts could boost confidence in hemp-derived products across food and feed applications.
Thanks to the Drewery Lab at Texas A&M for their dedicated research.
Full research paper: https://doi.org/10.1080/15440478.2024.2309893
