Ingredient Alliance demystifies hemp seeds with plant-based protein snacks

Ingredient Alliance showcased Natura Thai lemongrass-flavored crisps and Natura dark chocolate cacao nibs at Snaxpo, held in Savannah, Georgia, recently.

“[The new crisps] are ideal for consumers to dip into yogurts or hummus, or just eat it alone as a healthy snack option,”​ CEO Jim Saunders told BakeryandSnacks.

Benefits of hemp seeds​

Saunders founded Hemp Natura, Natura’s sister brand, eight months ago, to produce Hemp Smart Seed in a powder format that can be incorporated into snacks, which, he contended, targets brain health and memory function.

It can also be used for bakery products.

According to Saunders, the biggest misconception about hemp is its association with marijuana.

“Industrial hemp is the male plant, and cannabis, the female plant, contains the THC property. [Hemp has] basically less than 0.3% THC, so there’s no psychoactive activity, but it's very healthy with a complete amino profile, high protein, fiber and healthy fats,”​ he said.

Ancient grains and probiotics​

“We’re into functionality ingredients, super foods and ancient grains, such quinoa and teff,”​ Saunders said. “These types of ancient grains are gaining a lot of popularity in the market.”​

“One of the new trends [in the snack industry] is probiotics, and digestive health. ​Ganeden BC30​​​ is incorporated in many of our products, which delivers immune and digestive health benefits,”​ Saunders added.

Ingredient Alliance is currently developing a high fiber and high protein chips line that the company will put into production within the next month.