If you’ve never tried a hemp protein bar, you’re in for a treat. It’s a healthy and delicious snack that you can enjoy any time of day, even when you’re on the go. Each one is packed with the power of hemp protein, and this product has become an extremely popular “go-to” snack for individuals looking for a fast and healthy boost of energy. This article explores the benefits of hemp protein and how it compares to other plant-based sources.
Is Hemp the Perfect Plant Protein?
Many are turning away from animal-based protein sources and harnessing the power of plants.
Some have expressed concerns that it is challenging to get enough protein from plants, and these concerns are rooted in reality. This is because animal proteins are “complete,” meaning they contain all nine essential amino acids. Most plant proteins, on the other hand, are “incomplete” and need to be paired with another plant-based source of protein to get the full complement of amino acids.
However, there are exceptions, and hemp seeds are one of them. They contain all nine essential amino acids as well as healthy omega-3 and 6 fatty acids and a wide range of vitamins and minerals. They boast 31.6 grams of protein per 100 grams, making them an excellent source of this vital nutrient. Yet they are often overlooked in favor of other plant-based proteins.
Things Are Beginning to Change
It has taken a while, but more people than ever are beginning to come around to the idea of using hemp protein bars instead of other options. We’ll check out their nutritional advantages over the competition a little later. But first, we need to explore the other pros of choosing a hemp protein bar.
First of all, they are a highly convenient and portable snacking option for anyone with an active lifestyle. Let’s face it: too many of us are forced to eat food on the go. A shocking number of individuals go down the unhealthy fast-food route. Hemp protein bars give you something different and are a great choice whether you have to rush to work, go to the gym, or need some afternoon delight.
Furthermore, hemp protein bars cater to the ever-growing demand for vegan-friendly and plant-based protein sources. A significant percentage of the population now prefers plant-based diets. Among hemp protein’s many plus points is the fact that it is easy to digest and well-tolerated by most of the population. Thus, you can rely on a hemp protein bar to increase your protein intake without the need to consume animal products.
An Additional Benefit
By the way, hemp protein also offers a ton of environmental benefits, which is sure to delight those of you who actually care about the fate of our planet. Hemp is an extremely sustainable crop that can be cultivated with minimal water and no pesticides. Also, the plant absorbs CO2 from the atmosphere, which is fantastic news. So, one could say that the demand for hemp protein bars extends beyond their nutritional value!
Now, let’s compare hemp protein to other popular non-animal options.
Hemp vs. Soy
Soybeans come in just on top of hemp in terms of protein content, with 36.5g per 100g. Soy is also a complete protein, and there are many tasty ways to consume it. Edamame beans, tofu, tempeh, and soy milk are a few favorites, but there are many more.
However, in terms of convenience, hemp pips soy to the post. Most soy products require some preparation, whereas a tasty hemp protein bar is ready to go whenever you need it. Have you ever tried munching on raw tofu? Yuck!
Hemp vs. Peas
Peas are another popular plant-based protein source. Although they contain just 5.42g of protein per 100g, they are a popular ingredient in plant-based protein drinks. This is because they are a complete protein and contain relatively high levels of leucine, an amino acid necessary for muscle growth.
However, hemp smashes peas’ leucine content with 2.16g per 100g vs. just 0.323g. There is no doubt about the winner here!
Hemp vs. Lentils
Lentils are another popular protein source among vegans and veggies, containing 9.02g per 100g. They are highly versatile and can be used to cook hearty stews and spicy daal or even used as a substitute for mince in lasagne or pies.
But like soy, lentils require some prep, and you definitely wouldn’t want to chow down on a handful of them raw. Granted, nowadays, you can buy snacks like lentil chips, but these are nowhere near as satisfying as a substantial hemp protein bar.
Hemp vs. Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are an under-appreciated protein source with a generous 16.5g per 100g. Like hemp and soy, they are a complete protein source, and chia seed pudding can make a delightful and nutritious breakfast.
However, they are not convenient to eat on the go, and with hemp containing almost twice as much protein, there is a clear victory in this battle of the seeds.
Hemp vs. Peanuts
Peanuts are a popular snack food and can boost the nutritional content of otherwise unhealthy foods like cookies and candy bars. They score well on the protein front, with 25.8g per 100g, and are also more convenient to eat on the go than many other plant proteins.
Their major downfall is that they are a common allergen, and some people can have fatal anaphylactic shock after consuming peanuts. Therefore, they are not an ideal choice for everyone. Hemp seeds are less likely to have this effect and contain slightly more protein, meaning they still come out on top.
Why Hemp Protein Bars Come Out on Top
Hemp seeds contain more protein than most other plant-based sources and are a complete protein to boot. Their main competitor is soy, which is also complete and contains slightly more protein overall. However, hemp seeds have many other benefits, such as their optimal omega-3 to 6 fatty acid ratio and overall nutritional content. You can also snack on a hemp protein bar wherever you are, at any time of day, for a delicious and healthy treat. If that isn’t enough, you also have the environmental benefits of hemp to consider.
