US Approval of Hemp Seed Meal for Animal Feed: Potential Implications for Australian Hemp Industry

In a significant development for the global hemp industry, the Hemp Feed Coalition (HFC) in the United States has announced the approval of Hemp Seed Meal (HSM) for use in laying hen feed. This decision, made by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) with recommendation from the FDA's Center for Veterinary Medicine (FDA-CVM), could have potential implications for the Australian hemp sector.

The approval allows for HSM to be used as a protein and fat source in laying hen diets at up to 20% inclusion. This milestone comes after three years of effort and rigorous evaluation by US regulatory bodies.

Key points from the US approval:

1. HSM has been found to be a nutritious ingredient with a profile similar to soy and canola.
2. Research showed improved egg quality and enrichment with beneficial fatty acids and lutein in hemp-fed hens.
3. Studies verified that cannabinoid residues did not transfer to eggs, addressing a key safety concern.

While this approval is specific to the United States, it may be of interest to Australian hemp farmers and industry stakeholders. Currently, Australia allows the sale of low-THC hemp seed foods for human consumption, but regulations regarding hemp in animal feed differ.

Andrew Bish, President of HFC, commented on the broader implications: "Hemp's integration into animal feed is a catalyst for agricultural advancement. It's an opportunity for farmers to diversify with lower risk for supply chains to become more sustainable, and for the entire agricultural community to reap the benefits of this versatile crop."

For the Australian hemp industry, which has been growing since the legalization of hemp foods in 2017, this US development may provide valuable insights. While it doesn't directly change any regulations in Australia, it could potentially inform future discussions about the use of hemp products in the Australian agricultural sector.

As the global hemp industry continues to evolve, developments like this in other countries may be of interest to Australian hemp farmers, processors, and regulators. However, any changes to local regulations would require separate approval processes through the relevant Australian Federal and State authorities.

This US milestone represents a significant step in the global recognition of hemp's potential in agriculture and animal nutrition, and its progress may be watched with interest by hemp industries worldwide, especially in Australia.