Hemp Milk: not gonna do it.

Important Considerations

Important things to review when you make a decision on a milk replacement: added sugar, adequate calcium content, adequate B12, additives, dietary needs, and cost.  

Hemp Milk: Hemp milk is an excellent source of nutrition, but if you have a federal or military job, it is likely off limits.  No, you won’t get high on hemp milk, but there are some fears it might cause a positive drug test. It is made from crushed, hulled hemp seeds, water, and sweeteners.  Hemp milk is a good alternative for those allergic to soy, nuts, and gluten.

• Nutrition: One Cup: 70-100 calories, 5-6g fat, 0.5g saturated fat, 2-4g of protein, 6 g sugar, 30-50 percent DV calcium, 25 percent vitamin D, 25 percent DV riboflavin, and 25 percent vitamin B12. Hemp milk is also a good source of phosphorus and magnesium. 
• Advantages: Hemp milk is higher in iron than cow’s milk. That is good if you need more iron, but bad if you do not.  Hemp is also an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids (healthy ones) to promote heart health.  
• Disadvantages: Hemp milk is a terrible source of calcium unless it is fortified.  It absolutely does not taste like milk (reported to me – I can’t drink it).  My taster said the taste us much stronger.  Chose wisely because many of the brands are high in sugar. It is off-limits to the military.

The bottom line:  Hemp milk is likely one of the better milk replacements. It is delicious and has a pleasant texture, but it is less than an ideal replacement for milk. First of all, the risk is not worth the benefits for federal and military employees. Make sure to read labels before you buy because not all of them are created equal. I personally suggest lower lactose alternatives over hemp milk