Teri Wallace
Fuel Food Reality CheckOttawa, ON: Here are the facts on recent increases in fuel and food.
FACT Over the past year, oil prices have jumped by nearly 100%.
· In 2007, food prices increased by about 4% overall.
· In 2007, the same year the U.S. produced a record amount of ethanol from corn, the U.S. increased it surplus of corn to more than 1.4 billion bushels. In a record ethanol year, the U.S. actually fed more of the world by increasing its exports of corn by 6%.
· Food marketing costs now account for 80% of the cost of food. Marketing costs are the difference between the farm value and consumer spending for food at grocery stores and restaurants. · Corn accounts for less than 5% of the price a box of corn flakes.
The price of rice is now up 77% since October. Rice is not used is the production of biofuels. Corn for ethanol cannot be grown in rice paddies. · As a whole, fish prices are up. Fuel prices account for approximately 60%-70% of operating costs of fishermen. Fish are not used in the production of biofuels.· An increasing amount of biofuels are produced from nontraditional feedstocks such as waste products from the beverage, food, and forestry industries. In the very near future, biofuels will be produced from agricultural residues such as grain straw, Hemp stalks, sugarcane bagasse, corn stover, municipal solid waste, and energy crops such as switch grass and algae. Reference: Founded in 1994, the Canadian Renewable Fuels Association (CRFA) is a non-profit organization with a mission to promote the use of renewable fuels for transportation through consumer awareness and government liaison activities.
For 8000 Years, Hemp Was Primarily Man’s Crop…Fuel Food Reality Check. Hemp’s Making A Comeback!
Breaking the stigma! Cannabis and Hemp 101
Do you know what happens when you smoke hemp? Not a whole lot. You may end up with a cough or a headache, but you certainly won’t end up with a high. Surprised? Most people are 
because they mistakenly think hemp is the same thing as marijuana. It’s not; even though they are both members of the plant species cannabis sativa and bear an uncanny resemblance. Actually, the psychoactive properties in marijuana come from the THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) found in the flower of the plant.
To break the stigma associated with marijuana, it is important to actually understand the difference between cannabis and hemp 101:
The two are related through the same genus of plant. While industrial-grade hemp is a rather helpful resource in the world, it lacks the stimulating power of the substance known as delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol, or for short, THC. It is this active chemical of THC that brings about the “high” associated with marijuana.
Hemp contains 1.5% of this substance, while marijuana possesses between 4 % and 20%. In Canada, the legal amount of THC used to create products cannot exceed 0.3%. Overall, the plants are rather close in details, but supply very different functions for many dissimilar reasons, which especially shows through in the physical makeup of the two plants.
Hemp is much stronger than the marijuana variety, meaning it holds the possibility to create a wealth of raw materials. Marijuana is actually quite delicate, eliminating it as a contender regarding serving a purpose to benefit mankind in a manner acceptable by law (with the exception of medicinal uses).
Farming practices also dictate the amount of THC produced by the plant. The unfertilized female species of cannabis sativa L contains the highest amount of THC, thus the male species is removed to prevent pollination, increasing it’s psychoactive properties dramatically.
The market is rising for ‘Non-Dairy Protein’ alternatives driven by today’s health conscious consumers…
Today, consumers associate protein powders and supplements as nutrient sources for healthier living. But about 40 years ago the only concentrated form of protein that was manufactured was egg protein. In the 1990’s whey protein became a big hit with body builders who wanted to build muscle mass and reduce recovery periods between training sessions.Advanced science and technology has introduced us to protein isolates. These have become the latest craze because of their high protein content and versatility of use. Protein isolates, derived from milk and soy, contain a protein content that is above 90 percent. Each has a healthy amino acid composition along with several essential nutrients.
This growing awareness is pushing the protein supplement industry to phenomenal growth. While Europe is still the biggest market for protein products, the United States is known to be the fastest growing market for protein products. According to Global Industry Analysts (GIA), the annual growth rate is predicted to be 7.6 percent in the U.S.
What’s Pushing the Sale of Non-Dairy Protein Alternatives? Celiac’s Disease on the rise!! Gluten-Free on consumer demand…
The market is rising for non-dairy protein alternatives. According to a market survey report from Heyman, about 70 percent of the global adult population suffers from some form of lactose intolerance. Another reason that for the growth of this market, is the high cost of milk protein. In 2007, the cost of dairy protein suddenly rose by more than double due to the high cost of animal feed. Both of these factors have been forcing the industry to seek alternative non-dairy protein supplements.
Niche Market for Non-Dairy, Non-Soy Protein Products
While milk-derived and soy proteins make up 90 percent of the market, soy is the second most allergic substance, next to peanuts. There is, therefore, a niche consumer market for proteins derived from other plant and meat sources. With recent fears of the adverse health effects of meat proteins, plant-based protein sources are the more preferred consumer options.
Non-dairy, non-soy protein alternatives with high protein content and a low glycemic index can be found in a number of excellent protein sources for those who are vegans, lactose intolerant, or desire gluten-free protein supplements.
- Yellow Pea Protein Powder contains approximately 85 percent to 90 percent protein. It is rich in glutamine and BCAAs and contains a high concentration of arginine.
- Brown rice has a protein content of 70 percent, along with a high content of arginine which readily converts into nitric oxide. This enhances the absorption of nutrients, reduces recovery periods after training, and promotes muscle growth.
- Buckwheat powder contains albumen, the same kind of protein found in egg whites. Buckwheat contains sulfur-containing amino acids that are necessary for supporting muscle mass and reducing recovery time during training. It enhances muscle growth and promotes fat loss.
- Goat milk protein is manufactured as an option for those who are allergic to protein derived from cow’s milk. Goat milk whey powder has a protein content of 15 percent to 20 percent so cannot compare with the high protein content (90 percent) of whey protein isolates derived from cow’s milk. Goat milk protein powder can also be used as meal replacements.
- Research in Spain shows carob germ flour can produce isolates that have a protein content of 95 percent. In addition, they also possess a well-balanced amino acid composition (BCAA).
- Cranberry seed protein is another good source of protein. The seed has antioxidant properties, and contains about 35 percent of protein consisting of BCAA. The rest of the seed is fiber (both soluble and insoluble) along with Omega 3, omega 6 and omega 9 fats. Cranberry seed protein can also be used as meal replacements.
- Hemp protein powder also has a rich composition of BCAA, arginine, essential fatty acids and fiber. Hemp protein powder can also be used as meal replacements.
- Brazil nut protein powder consists of a complete protein. It is rich in healthy fats and selenium.
Protein powders are used by bodybuilders and health-conscious individuals. They are also used by recuperating patients and as supplements for children and the elderly. Soy protein, especially, has been linked to reducing belly fat and increasing bone density in postmenopausal women; soy protein shows benefits in weight loss management programs; is known to stabilize blood sugar levels; has cholesterol-lowering properties; liver protective properties; promotes healthy lungs and has shown beneficial effects in a number of research studies for various types of cancer. Protein powders are popular for weight-conscious individuals looking for high protein foods with a low glycemic index.
Hemp Cake: Ideal Mate For Hemp Beer Brewers! Belly Up!
Fact: The hemp seed cake can also be used for all you beer brewers ! Where does Hemp Cake come from? One should know that hemp seeds do not mill into flour, they become butter because of the high oil content. In order to get flour, you need to remove the oils. We mill the byproduct of pressing hemp seed for oil, which we call hemp cake.
Now getting back to hemp loving beer brewers & drinkers… apparently, a well made hemp beer retains an excellent head. With the oils in hemp seed, this often causes poor hemp retention. This can be easily solved by adding hemp seed cake instead. With the significantly lowered levels of oils in the cake, the resulting beer will have much better head retention.
WHO KNEW? Check out the video we found on YouTube!
Hemp’s fatty acids mirrors the primitive diet man evolved on for 2.5 million years. Who Knew!
Hemp’s ratio of Omega 6 to Omega 3 fatty acids is about 4:1 which mirrors the primitive diet man evolved on for 2.5 million years. This ratio of fatty acids has been shown to prevent and even reverse Alzheimers disease in animal models and humans (Yehuda et al, Int J Neurosci, vol 3, 141-9, 1996).
The fatty acid gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) is especially beneficial for the elderly who become essential fatty acid deficient as they age. Polyunsaturated fats have been shown to be beneficial for the prevention of heart disease, especially omega 3 fatty acids.
Polyunsaturated fats are good, offering the most double bonds and remain fluid at the lowest temperatures, thereby permitting proper protein (enzyme ) functions necessary for health.
Hemp Seed Oil Top SPF Rating For Natural Suncreens + More Benefits!
Fortunately there are some products that are non-toxic sunscreens. Many plants have developed their own UVR protection and it is the extracts or oils from these plants that can provide us with natural protection. The SPF ratings for these extracts and oils are not as high as synthetically produced products but they are safe for us and for the environment.
As in all things, the best approach to UVR protection is one of moderation:
- limit the amount of time in the sun
- stay indoors in the most extreme UVR times of the day
- use clothing, hat and sunglasses as barrier protection as much as possible
- apply plant derived sunscreens to exposed skin
Natural plant oils and extracts and SPF
There are a number of natural ingredients that offer sun protection. They are:
- Hemp seed oil – SPF 6
- Shea Butter – Cinnaminic Acid – SPF 6
- Macadamia oil – SPF 6
- Sesame seed oil – SPF 4
- Jojoba oil – SPF 4
- Coconut oil – SPF 2
Many of these extracts have other benefits besides UVR protection. Because the nutrients in Hemp seed oil so closely resemble our body’s natural lipids, it is easily absorbed into our skin. It has natural anti-bacterial qualities and is one of the world’s richest sources of essential fatty acids, essential amino acids and other nutrients important for healthy keratin formation.
Although these plant extracts do not have high SPF, they do NOT interfere with the absorption of vitamin D like the synthetic chemical sun protection products. Plant extracts may also assist with cell repair. Products such as hemp oil.
Reference: http://www.sickamongthepure.net
…got MILK? Hemp! Oh Soooo Omega!
gotMilk? Hooray for HEMP!
Hemp Seed Milk
This is a very easy way to get a good source of the Omega-6 & Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids Makes: 6-7 cups
Prep Time: 2 min
1 cup Hemp Seed Nuts
5-6 cups Water
Combine the water and the Hemp Seed Nuts in a blender. You can create the desired thickness by using more or less water (from coffee creamer consistency to skim). Blend on high for 2 -3 minutes, or until creamy and smooth. To sweeten add: agave, stevia, banana, dates, figs, raisins, maple syrup, honey or your favorite fruit. Blend again until smooth. You can enjoy it thick or strain it through cheese cloth.
Hemp Seed Nut Milk is perfect alone or with your breakfast cereal. It will keep for 3 days in the refrigerator in a sealed container. Shake well before use.
The Crunch? Conscious Foodies Wanna Know: Raw vs. Roasted Hemp Seeds?
A raw nut is generally picked or purchased in its shell. It has not been heated through or processed. Raw nuts have the most nutrients because they have not escaped or been cooked out of the nut. Most raw nuts are high in protein and are less fat than many roasted nuts because they are not cooked in oil. Roasted nuts are often enjoyed because the natural oils of the nuts are allowed to come out of the nut. Butter, oils, salt and seasonings are often added for a flavorful result in snacking or recipe making.
Vitamin Loss
Heat can destroy B-complex vitamins found in nuts, while soaking the raw nuts so they sprout or drying helps release the enzymes that activate the vitamins they contain. Most nuts contain vitamins B-1, B-3, folate and B-6. The B-vitamin complex helps turn food into energy through enzyme reactions.Raw nuts may also have higher levels of vitamins A, C and E.
Roasted Hemp: How much damage does the sterilizing hemp seed do?
The sterilization process is the roasted hemp seed it actually does minimal damage to the whole seed. An infrared sterilization process (heat) and essentially the damage results in minute cracks in the hull of the seed causing a shorter shelf life of months rather than years for the whole hemp seed. The proteins are not affected, the minerals are not affected, the vitamins are slightly affected but hemp seeds are not a valuable source of vitamins, which can also be said for any seed or nut. The oils are affected by the heat, retaining the fact that the sterilized hemp seed an excellent source of protein. Noted that no one is actually able to sell unsterilized live seed, but are able to produce ALL of other products from live seed, it is just the whole seed we must sterilize.
Issue of Phytic Acid
Raw nuts that have not been soaked or dried may still contain large amounts of phytic acid, which inhibits the digestion of the nutrients in nuts. Phytic acid can also interfere with the absorption of calcium, magnesium, iron and zinc and keeps enzymes in an inactive state, according to Natural Bias. Soaking raw nuts before eating them makes them more nutritionally valuable as well as more easily digestible.
Added Oils in Roasted Nuts
Nuts contain omega-3 fatty acids and monounsaturated fats that can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of developing heart disease. Roasted nuts contain added oils that can add not only calories but also more saturated fats, which increase rather than decrease the risk of high cholesterol and heart disease. Roasting can add an additional 10 percent of fat to nuts, according to Lisa Gaetke of the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture Superfund Research Program Community Outreach Core.
Additives
Roasted nuts also have salt or other flavorings or preservatives added. Additional sodium can raise your blood pressure, which contributes to heart disease. Preservatives add no nutritional value beyond increasing the shelf-life of a product.
Acrylamide
Roasting can cause acrylamide, a toxin known to cause cancer in laboratory animals, to form in some roasted nuts, particularly those that contain free asparagine, an amino acid, such as almonds. The higher the roasting temperature, the higher the acrylamide content, according to a Swiss study reported in the September 2005 issue of the “Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.”
Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/466486-the-nutrients-of-raw-nuts-vs-cooked-nuts/#ixzz1eG1UkJjy
Roasted Road Map… how it actually is processed?
To steam sterilize, seeds are not cooked to the point of killing bacteria. Instead, they are brought to a temperature of 160°F for 5 minutes and then cooled. This is hot enough to alter some of the enzymes necessary for photosynthesis. If the seeds were cooked any further, the seed coats would break, allowing the reactive oils to go rancid quickly. As it is, the shelf life of the cooked seeds is compromised. The heat opens micro fissures in the hull that allow oxygen to penetrate into the delicate kernels. Live seeds can sprout after being kept in a drawer for five years, but cooked seeds can go rancid in a few months, especially if not refrigerated.
Robert Stroud, the ‘Birdman of Alcatraz’, became an expert on birds and wrote about them in 1939. The book, Diseases of Birds, still stands as an authority. Stroud mentioned how nutritious hemp seeds were, but expressed frustration with the ‘sterilized’ seeds that were coming on the market as a result of the 1937 Marijuana Tax Act. He called them “rancid trash”.
All foodstuffs, every spice, every grain of rice, including hemp seeds, brought into the US is fumigated to kill all insects and other plant pests. This not only diminishes the freshness but also significantly reduces the nutrient content. Adding insult to injury, the government also requires that these items be fumigated with methyl bromide – a toxic substance to both humans and animals.
Concerns in the Environment?
Methylene bromide works like carbon dioxide by suffocating all living matter. It is inert enough that it does not react with the seeds and dissipates into the air. The major problem with it is that it travels into the upper atmosphere, where it depletes the ozone. However, the amount of methylene bromide used as a fumigant is a tiny fraction of what is used for tenting, houses, and agricultural fields.
As of 2005, the US will be completing its scheduled phasing-out period for the use of methyl bromide, with the exception of what they deem as necessary use.
Websites worthy of your attention on the topic of Roasted.
Ozone Depletion Rules and Regulations — This site tells about the phasing out schedule and the “necessary” items.
Campon Millennium Chemicals — This site gives more information on methyl bromide.
The King of the PLANT PROTEINS!!! Easy digesting, gluten-free, dairy free & full of the Good FATs!!
Most people know about whey and soy protein, but yet another alternative type of protein, is hemp protein, and it’s quickly gaining in popularity. Hemp protein continues to gain popularity as a dietary supplement for many reasons. It contains all the essentials amino acids your body requires. Hemp protein contains more globulins and albumin then any other plant source of protein. Omega-3 fats have received a lot of good press lately for its many health benefits. But it need to be combined with omega-6 fats in the correct ratios. Clinical studies have shown omega-3 fats to improve memory and lower rates of depression. So YES! Hemp protein contains both omega-3 and omega-6 fats. 
Hemp protein contains no gluten which makes it a good source of nutrients for those with Celiac disease. It is also acceptable for kosher and vegan diets. It doesn’t contain oligosaccharides which can cause an upset stomach.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4492907
Hemp Seed Oil & It’s Amazing Benefits For Athletes!
Fact: Hemp seed oil is able to circumvent the impaired EFA metabolism and physical compromise that can result from genetic factors, intake of other fats, aging, and lifestyle patterns.
Other fatty acids in hemp seed oil include: Palmitoleic acid, Heptadecanoic acid, Arachiditic acid, Eicosenoic acid, Behenic acid, Erucic acid, Lignoceric acid, and Nervonic acid; but it also contains several higher fatty acids. It is one of the only food oils to contain the direct metabolites of LA and LNA. Most notable are GLA (gamma linolenic acid from LA) and SDA (stearidonic acid from LNA), which serve as intermediaries in the formation of longer-chain fatty acids and vital hormone-like prostaglandins in the body.
Symptoms of an LNA (omega-3) deficiency include: dry skin, growth retardation, weakness, impaired learning ability, poor motor coordination, behavioural changes, impaired vision, high blood pressure, sticky platelets, edema, mental deterioration, low metabolic rate, and immune dysfunction (see more under Hemp as Medicine)
Although LA (omega-6) is present in our bodies in much greater quantities and because the western diet has an over-abundance, deficiencies are rare but can happen.
Symptoms of an LA deficiency include: skin eruptions (acne and eczema-like), loss of hair, poor blood circulation, behavioral disturbances, liver and kidney degeneration, gallbladder problems, prostatitis, muscle tremors, abnormal water loss through the skin (sweating profusely), susceptibility to infections, im
These deficiency symptoms are all reversible with adequate intakes of EFAs from Hempseed Oil. But if ignored for a long time, health problems can develop into more serious degenerative conditions, paired wound healing, male sterility, miscarriage, arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and growth retardation.
Low Fat Diets:
Reductions of essential fatty acids (EFAs) in ultra-low fat and fat-free diets actually cause people to feel hungrier than they did before going on such a diet. It can also begin the process of dangerous EFA deficiency which causes people to binge on high-calorie foods to compensate for feeling unsatisfied.
The body absolutely requires fat in the diet in order to process such fat-soluble nutrients as vitamins A, D, E, and K as well as phytochemicals. Fat substitutes, like Olestra, Oatrim, and Simplesse for example, slide through the digestive system intact – which most people think is advantageous. But, fat substitutes compound a problem by not only being unable to absorb these nutrients into the body, but also they carry them directly into the feces for elimination.
Fat-free diets have been correlated with violent, short tempers in human and animal studies. Such diets can also cause high cholesterol levels because the body produces excess cholesterol in an attempt to make up for the lack of EFAs.
Suggested Hempseed Oil Dosage
One tablespoon of hempseed oil or 1 ounce of shelled hempseed supplies roughly 6.6 grams of omega-6 and 2.2 grams of omega-3 – just the amounts needed for a 2000-calorie diet. This is a suitable amount even for vegetarians and takes into account the conversion ration of 1% ALA to DHA, the currently accepted conversion rate for plant sources of omega-3.
Hempseed oil is best stored in the fridge or best in a freezer. It will stay fluid and does not need to be defrosted. One to 3 tablespoons is the suggested daily intake for adults; athletes up to 3 tbsp; children can take half that amount; and breast-fed babies obtain its benefits through the mother’s milk.
