Virgin hemp seed oil: An interesting niche product

The Effects of Adding Hempseed Cake on Sperm Traits, Body Weight, Haematological and Biochemical Parameters in Rabbit Males

Incorporating of agro-industrial co-products into animal nutrition could represent an opportunity to lessen the environmental impact of the food production chain. One such co-product is a hempseed cake originating from cold pressing hemp seeds to extract oil for human consumption. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the action of hempseed cake in the diet on male rabbit reproductive and some non-reproductive indexes. Male rabbits were fed either a standard diet (control group; C; n = 10) or a diet enriched with hempseed cake (experimental group E5 with 5% of a hempseed cake; n = 10, and experimental group E10 with 10% of a hempseed cake; n = 10) in 100 kg of the milled complete feed mixture. Rabbit weight gain, sperm concentration, motility, progressive motility, and sperm quality were evaluated using CASA and flow cytometry. Feeding with a hempseed cake, given at both tested concentrations, had no effect on weight gain per week and the total average weight gain compared to the control group (p > 0.05). Hempseed cake addition had no effect on sperm concentration in ejaculate, sperm motility, and progressive motility (p > 0.05). Selected haematological and biochemical indexes were examined. The E5 group showed positive tendencies in hepatic profile parameters, while in the E10 group the tendencies were opposite, though within the reference values. Based on our results, no negative effects of hempseed cake feeding on rabbit reproduction and health status were found, and we can recommend the use of hempseed cake at doses up to 10% in the nutrition and feeding of rabbits. Therefore, agro-industrial co-products can decrease the feeding cost.

Design of Aerated Oleogel-Hydrogel Mixtures for 3D Printing of Personalized Cannabis Edibles

Cannabis seed oil oleogel structured with Glycerol Monostearate (20% w/w) was mixed with xanthan gum hydrogel (2% w/w) at different ratios ranging from 0% w/w hydrogel to 75% w/w hydrogel, using a syringe-to-syringe apparatus, for the preparation of 3D-printable food inks. This process enabled the simultaneous blend of oleogel and hydrogel phases and the incorporation of air in a reproducible and accurate manner. The printability of bigel inks with different mass ratios was evaluated by using a conventional benchtop food 3D printer. The printability of the inks was found to be negatively affected by the presence of higher portions of the hydrogel phase, while the printing performance of pure cannabis seed oil oleogel was superior compared to the printing performance of the bigel inks. The physicochemical properties of hybrid gels were investigated with rheological studies, thermophysical studies (Differential Scanning Calorimetry), Polarized Light Microscopy, and Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy. The microstructure of the aerated inks was affected by the presence of a higher oleogel fraction, in terms of air bubble shape and distribution. The addition of hydrogel at concentrations higher than 50% w/w had a strong negative effect on the mechanical properties of the inks leading to a partial collapse of the printed structures and subsequently to poor printing performance.

Beneficial Effects of Plant Oils Supplementation on Multiple Sclerosis: A Comprehensive Review of Clinical and Experimental Studies

Multiple sclerosis disease (MS) is a 38.5 chronic neurological autoimmune disease that affects the nervous system, and its incidence is increasing globally. At present, there is no cure for this disease, and with its severity and disabling variety, it is important to search for possibilities that could help to slow its progression. It is recognized that the mechanisms of MS pathology, its development and degree of activity can be affected by dietary factors. In this review, the beneficial health effects of 10 plants oils-mainly seed oils, including pomegranate seed oil, sesame oil, acer truncatum bunge seed oil, hemp seeds oil, evening primrose seed oil, coconut oil, walnut oil, essential oil from Pterodon emarginatus seeds, flaxseed oil and olive oil-on MS are discussed. The literature data indicate that plant oils could be effective for the treatment of MS and its related symptoms primarily through reducing inflammation, promoting remyelination, immunomodulation and inhibiting oxidative stress. Plant oils may potentially reduce MS progression. Longitudinal research including a larger sample size with a longer duration is essential to confirm the findings from the selected plant oils. Moreover, new plant oils should be studied for their potential MS benefit.

Direct extraction with acetonitrile of hemp seed oil for the analysis of pesticides by using comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography-triple quadrupole mass spectrometry

The method herein described involves a rapid and limited-volume (0.5 mL of acetonitrile) solvent-extraction sample preparation process, for pesticide determination in hemp seed oil. The extraction method was characterized by the absence of both clean-up or pre-concentration steps. The extracts were directly analyzed through cryogenic-modulation comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography coupled to triple quadrupole mass spectrometry. The novelty characterizing the present research [compared to a previous one (Arena et al., 2023)] is related to the extension of the number of pesticides (97), and to the investigation of a more challenging matrix, contained in a vegetable oil of increasing interest among consumers. Linearity, limits of detection and quantification, accuracy, precision, recovery, and matrix effect were measured. Particular emphasis was devoted to the matrix effect, with the co-extracted matrix amount defined. Three international regulations (Canada, California, Europe) were considered, and the obtained limits of quantification were found to be too high in five (Canada) and twelve (Europe) cases, for a total number of 15 pesticides. The analysis of ten commercial samples showed the presence of seven pesticide residues in four of them, at concentration levels ranging from 0.02 to 0.98 mg kg-1, with most over the regulation residue limits.

First Report of Hemp Fusarium Wilt Caused by Fusarium oxysporum in Croatia

Wilted hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) plants were observed in August 2019 in commercial fields around Osijek, Croatia. Plants and roots with disease symptoms were collected. The single-spored isolates produced septate cottony white to light pink aerial mycelium and purple undersurface on potato dextrose agar (PDA). Smooth and hyaline hyphae were branched and septate. Macroconidia were fusiform to sickle-shaped with foot-shaped basal cells, elongated apical cells and three to five septa. Sequencing of the internal transcribed spacer and the partial elongation factor 1-α gene identified the species as Fusarium oxysporum. Artificial infection fulfills Koch's postulates, producing plants which show stunted growth and wilt symptoms similar to those observed in the commercial fields. Control seedlings remained symptomless and healthy. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of hemp Fusarium wilt causing F. oxysporum in Croatia. Considering that F. oxysporum has been reported in main field crops in Croatia, the presence of this pathogen could cause economically significant hemp production decreases, especially in humid and cold springs and susceptible varieties.

Theoretical exploration and experimental regulation of the degradation of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol in hemp seed oil by density functional theory

Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ⁹-THC) in hemp seed oil is a psychoactive cannabinoid, and the content of Δ⁹-THC can be reduced. Density functional theory (DFT) was used to simulate the degradation path of Δ⁹-THC, and the ultrasonic treatment was used to degrade the Δ⁹-THC in hemp seed oil. Results found that the reaction of Δ⁹-THC degradation to cannabinol (CBN) was a spontaneous exothermic reaction, which required a certain amount of external energy to initiate reaction process. Through the surface electrostatic potential analysis, the minimum value of electrostatic potential of Δ⁹-THC was -37.68 kcal/mol, and the maximum value was 40.98 kcal/mol. The frontier molecular orbitals analysis found that the energy level difference of Δ⁹-THC was lower than that of CBN, indicating that the reactivity of Δ⁹-THC was stronger. The degradation process of Δ⁹-THC could be divided into two stages, which needed to cross the reaction energy barriers of 3197.40 and 3087.24 kJ/mol, respectively. Ultrasonic treatment was used to degrade Δ⁹-THC standard solution, it was found that Δ⁹-THC can be effectively degraded into CBN through intermediate. Subsequently, ultrasonic technology was applied to hemp seed oil, under the conditions of ultrasonic power 150 W and ultrasonic time 21 min, the Δ⁹-THC was degraded to 10.00 mg/kg.

The Effect of Mineral Fertilization on the Content of Bioactive Compounds in Hemp Seeds and Oil

The popularity of hemp cultivation for industrial purposes has been steadily growing for many years. With the addition of products derived from these plants to the Novel Food Catalogue, maintained by the European Commission, a significant increase in interest in hemp food is also expected. The aim of the study was to determine the characteristics of hempseed, oil, and oil cake samples produced from experimental plots grown in different conditions. The research was conducted on the Henola variety, one of the newest and most popular varieties of hemp, recently bred for grain and oil. The content of bioactive compounds in grain and oil has been subjected to detailed chemical analyses in order to determine the effect of fertilization, the method of plant cultivation, and processing conditions on their quantity. The test results and the statistical analysis carried out showed a significant impact of the tested factors on the content of some of the tested bioactive compounds. The obtained results will help in the development of an effective method of cultivation for this hemp variety in order to maximize the content of the desired bioactive compounds per unit of cultivation area.

Effect of Filtration Process on Oxidative Stability and Minor Compounds of the Cold-Pressed Hempseed Oil during Storage

Cold-pressed hempseed oil (HO) has been increasingly exploited in the human diet for its excellent nutritional and healthy properties. However, it has a high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and chlorophylls, which inevitably accelerate its oxidative deterioration, especially in the presence of light. In this scenario, the filtration technology may ameliorate the oxidative stability of the oil, with positive effects on its nutritional quality and shelf life. Therefore, in this study, the oxidative stability and minor compounds of non-filtered and filtered HO (NF-HO and F-HO) were monitored over 12 weeks of storage in transparent glass bottles. F-HO showed a better hydrolytic and oxidative status than NF-HO during storage. As a result, F-HO also displayed better preservation of total MUFAs and PUFAs in the autoxidation process. Filtration consistently reduced chlorophylls, thus causing a variation in the natural color of HO. Accordingly, F-HO not only revealed an increased resistance to photooxidation but it was also suitable for storage in clear bottles within 12 weeks. F-HO predictably showed lower carotenoids, tocopherols, polyphenols, and squalene compared to NF-HO. However, filtration appeared to play a "protective role" toward these antioxidants, which had lower degradation rates in F-HO than NF-HO for 12 weeks. Interestingly, the element profile of HO was not affected by filtration and remained stable during the study period. Overall, this study may be of practical use to both producers and marketers of cold-pressed HO.

Sensory Wheel and Lexicon for the Description of Cold-Pressed Hemp Seed Oil

Cold-pressed hemp seed oil (CP-HSO) has become available on the market and is gaining popularity mainly for its appeal and nutritional profile. The sensory quality largely depends on seed quality and processing as well as oil storage conditions. Given the "native" nature of the product, obtained by cold-pressing, the development of a standardized methodology to evaluate and describe the sensory quality of HSOs is of the utmost importance. To this aim, 16 commercial HSOs were evaluated, covering the main differences in brands and sales channels. A trained panel developed a vocabulary to describe the HSO profile consisting of 44 attributes, and a practical sensory wheel was proposed to classify attributes in different clusters and according to sensory modality. A sensory profile sheet was developed including two color descriptors (yellow, green), seven main positive (sunflower/pumpkin seeds, nutty, toasted nutty, hay, sweet, bitter, and pungent), several secondary positive (herbs, coffee, tobacco, etc.), four main defects (rancid, paint, burnt, and fish), and other secondary negative descriptors (boiled vegetables, cucumber, etc.). Subsequently, specific training of the panelists was carried out, and a satisfactory performance level was reached. This study represents the first attempt to standardize the sensory quality and terminology of HSO.

Risk of unintentional antidoping rule violations by consumption of hemp products

Consumption of hemp products is continuously growing, with an expanding scope of applications. Suppliers operate through different distribution channels, but the Internet is a major retail platform. Hemp products are prepared from cannabis plants and, therefore, might contain a variety of different natural cannabinoids. According to the regulations of the World Anti-Doping Agency, all natural and synthetic cannabinoids are prohibited in-competition, with the explicit exemption of cannabidiol. Therefore, an investigation of 23 hemp products for the presence of cannabinoids was performed to determine the likelihood of unintentional violations of anti-doping regulations. An assay for the detection of 16 cannabinoids in nutritional supplements was developed and validated. The sample preparation consisted of QuEChERS extraction, trimethylsilylation, and analysis by gas chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry. All 23 commercially available hemp products were analyzed, and assay characteristics such as selectivity, limit of detection, limit of identification, limit of quantification, linearity, imprecision, recovery, and accuracy were determined. Twenty of 23 hemp products included a variety of cannabinoids at, occasionally, substantial concentrations, with four products covering the entire spectrum of tested cannabinoids. An ethics committee-approved single-dose administration study was conducted with the commercially available hemp products, investigating the presence of 16 cannabinoids in urine collected pre- and post-consumption. Variable patterns of cannabinoids or their metabolites in urine were observed. In 30% of the urine samples collected 8 h after ingestion, the presence of a prohibited cannabinoid would have resulted in an unintentional violation of anti-doping regulations.

Assessment of Hemp Seed Oil Quality Pressed from Fresh and Stored Seeds of Henola Cultivar Using Differential Scanning Calorimetry

Cold-pressed hemp (Cannabis Sativa L.) seed oil has become very popular amongst consumers and researchers, due to its manifold application in food and medicine industry. In this study, oils pressed from stored and fresh hemp seeds of the Henola cultivar were analyzed. Determination of the acid value (AV) and color of oil (a* parameter) revealed significant differences between the two groups of oils (fresh and stored seeds) in contrast to the peroxide value (PV), p-anisidine value (p-AV), and fatty acid composition. On the other hand, isothermal and non-isothermal assessments of the thermo-oxidative stability by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) showed no significant differences in oxidation induction time (OIT) as well as in onset temperature (Ton) between two groups of oils (p > 0.05). The DSC isothermal test (OIT 160) showed significant correlations with mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids as well as with values of AV and a* (p ≤ 0.05), in contrast to the non-isothermal test, for which correlations were not significant (p > 0.05). However, the best distinction of both groups of oils was obtained analyzing all results together (DSC, fatty acid and tocochromanols composition, color, and oxidative stability results) by principal component analysis (PCA).

Hemp (Cannabis sativa subsp. sativa) Chemical Composition and the Application of Hempseeds in Food Formulations

Owing to its nutritional and medicinal value, hemp has been cultivated to provide since ancient times. This review aims to map the scientific literature concerning the main functional components and the chemical composition of hemp plant. It is generally acknowledged that each organ of the hemp plant embodies a valuable source, and among them the most pivotal part is the edible fruits hempseeds. Hempseeds are rich in easily digestible proteins, fats, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and insoluble fiber, which are of high nutritional value. Furthermore, the beneficial effects have increased researchers' interests in hempseeds-containing foods. Developed as an indispensable ingredient, hempseed is also a significant supplement in various products, such as bakery food, drinks, snacks and culinary products. Overall, this review intends to promote the further in-depth investigation of approved hemp plants and expand the range of hempseeds adoption in the functional foods field.

Industrial hemp seed: from the field to value-added food ingredients

Industrial hemp, with low levels of the intoxicating cannabinoid tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), is grown for fibre and seeds. The industrial hemp industry is poised for expansion. The legalisation of industrial hemp as an agricultural commodity and the inclusion of hemp seed in foods is helping to drive the expansion of the hemp food ingredients industry. This paper discusses the opportunity to build an industrial hemp industry, with a focus on the prospects of hemp seed and its components in food applications. The market opportunities for industrial hemp products are examined. Various aspects of the science that underpins the development of an industrial hemp industry through the food supply chain are presented. This includes a discussion on the agronomy, on-farm and post-harvest considerations and the various types of food ingredients that can be made from hemp seed. The characteristics of hemp seed meal, hemp seed protein and hemp seed oil are reviewed. Different processes for production of value-added ingredients from hemp seed, hemp seed oil and hemp seed protein, are examined. The applicability of hemp seed ingredients in food applications is reviewed. The design of hemp seed ingredients that are fit-for-purpose for target food applications, through the selection of varieties and processing methods for production of various hemp seed ingredients, needs to consider market-led opportunities. This will require an integrated through chain approach, combined with the development of on-farm and post-farm strategies, to ensure that the hemp seed ingredients and foods containing hemp seed are acceptable to the consumer.

Quality of Oil Pressed from Hemp Seed Varieties: 'Earlina 8FC', 'Secuieni Jubileu' and 'Finola'

In the last decade, the demand for edible niche oils has increased. Therefore, the aim of this study was to characterize the seeds hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) varieties: 'Finola' (FIN-314)', 'Earlina 8FC', and 'Secuieni Jubileu', and cold and hot pressed oils were prepared from each seed. The seeds were examined for moisture content, granulometric distribution, bulk density, and fat content. Seeds were pressed without and with preconditioning (60 °C), and oil yield and pressing time were recorded. The oil was filtered through cellulose membranes. Oil-water content, oil color, fatty acid profile, and sterol content were studied. From the study conducted, there are significant differences in the parameters of oil recovery and its quality compared to 'Finola' seed oil, which is widely reported in the literature. 'Finola' oil yield was the lowest, with an average of 79% compared to 'Earlina' (82%) and 'S. Jubileu' (84%). All oil samples contained a comparable amount of sterols, with campesterol (0.32 mg/g), β-sitosterol (1.3 mg/g) and Δ5-avenasterol (0.15 mg/g) predominating. From the organoleptic evaluation, it was evident that both varieties hemp oils and marc ('Earlina' and 'S. Jubileu') were not bitter like the "Finola" oil and marc. More detailed studies in this direction have to be undertaken.

Evaluation of Hemp Seed Oils Stability under Accelerated Storage Test

The interest in hemp seed oil has recently increased, due to the latest regulations which allow its use as food. Hemp seed oil is characterized by a high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are highly prone to oxidation. Accelerated thermal oxidation (60 °C, 18 days) has been applied to nine types of cold-pressed hemp seed oils to monitor the evolution of the samples during oxidative deterioration. The results showed that the only determinations of primary (peroxide value) and secondary (TBARs) oxidation products did not allow a sufficient or correct evaluation of the oxidative changes of hemp seed oils during storage. In fact, samples at the end of the test were primarily characterized by a high presence of oxidation volatile compounds and a significant decrease of antioxidants. Several volatiles identified before the accelerated storage, such as the predominant α-pinene and β-pinene, gradually decreased during the accelerated storage period. On the other hand, aldehydes (hexanal, (E)-2-hexenal, heptanal, (E,E)-2,4-hexadienal, (E)-2-heptenal, (E,E)-2,4-heptadienal, (E,Z)-2,4-heptadienal, 2-octenal, nonanal, nonenal, 2,4-nonadienal, (E,E)- 2,4-decadienal and 2,4-decadienal), ketones (1-octen-3-one, 3-octen-2-one, (E,E)-3,5-octadien-2- one and 3,5-octadien-2-one), acids (propionic acid, pentanoic acid, hexanoic acid and heptanoic acid) and 2-pentyl-furan increased during the accelerated storage, as principal markers of oxidation.

Quality, Key Production Factors, and Consumption Volume of Niche Edible Oils Marketed in the European Union

Consumer’s awareness of the health-promoting aspects of food and their search for products with high nutritional value is driving increased interest in niche oils. Such oils are produced on a small scale due to limited access to raw material and its low oil content. The aim of this multi-criteria analysis was to position niche oils. Data for the study were collected based on a literature review regarding twenty-three niche oils available on the European Union market. Analysis of quality parameters, key production factors, waste reusability, and average annual consumption volume in 2015–2020 was performed. Based on the research, it was concluded that linseed (flaxseed) oil, hemp oil, mustard oil, raspberry seed oil, and sesame oil should be of the most interest to consumers. They are characterized by the highest content of tocopherols, sterols, polyphenols, and carotenoids, a favorable ratio of mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids, and pro-ecological and sustainable production technology. Based on the results of the study, the need for empirical research was identified, the key to filling the knowledge gaps in the area of edible niche oils.

Effect of ultrasound on the preparation of soy protein isolate-maltodextrin embedded hemp seed oil microcapsules and the establishment of oxidation kinetics models

In this study, microcapsules were prepared by spray drying and embedding hemp seed oil (HSO) with soy protein isolate (SPI) and maltodextrin (MD) as wall materials. The effect of ultrasonic power on the microstructure and characteristics of the composite emulsion and microcapsules was studied. Studies have shown that ultrasonic power has a significant impact on the stability of composite emulsions. The particle size of the composite emulsion after 450 W ultrasonic treatment was significantly lower than the particle size of the emulsion without the ultrasonic treatment. Through fluorescence microscopy observation, HSO was found to be successfully embedded in the wall materials to form an oil/water (O/W) composite emulsion. The spray-dried microcapsules showed a smooth spherical structure through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and the particle size was 10.7 μm at 450 W. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy analysis found that ultrasonic treatment would increase the degree of covalent bonding of the SPI-MD complex to a certain extent, thereby improving the stability and embedding effect of the microcapsules. Finally, oxidation kinetics models of HSO and HSO microcapsules were constructed and verified. The zero-order model of HSO microcapsules was found to have a higher degree of fit; after verification, the model can better reflect the quality changes of HSO microcapsules during storage.

Assessment of Chemical, Physicochemical, and Lipid Stability Properties of Gelled Emulsions Elaborated with Different Oils Chia (Salvia hispanica L.) or Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) and Pseudocereals

Gelled emulsion (GE) systems are one of the novel proposals for the reformulation of meat products with healthier profiles. The aims of this research were (i) to develop gelled emulsions using pseudocereal flours (amaranth, buckwheat, teff, and quinoa) and vegetable oils (chia oil, hemp oil, and their combination), (ii) to determine their chemical composition, physicochemical properties, and lipid stability, and (iii) to evaluate their stability during frozen storage. The results showed that GEs are technologically viable except for the sample elaborated with teff flour and a mix of oils. The lipid oxidation was not greater than 2.5 mg malonaldehyde/kg of sample for any of the samples analyzed. The physicochemical properties analyzed showed both the pH and color values of the GEs within the range of values obtained for the fat of animal origin. The texture properties were affected by the type of oil added; in general, the firmness and the work of shear increased with the addition of the mixture of both oils. The samples elaborated with buckwheat and chia oil and quinoa and chia oil had the highest emulsion stability values, which remained among the highest after freezing. The results showed that gelled emulsions, based on chia oil, hemp, and their mixture with pseudocereal flours, are a viable alternative as a possible substitute of saturated fat in the development of novel foods.

Development and validation of a real-time PCR assay to detect Cannabis sativa in food

Regarding the prospective investigation of food authenticity and adulteration the aim of the present study was the development and validation of a real-time PCR assay to identify hemp (Cannabis sativa) which has gained increasing importance as a valuable food ingredient. The assay targets a specific spacer DNA sequence in Cannabis sativa chloroplasts and detects 1.5 pg hemp DNA, which is equivalent to 18 copies/µL. Corresponding to the very low LOD (0.00031 ng/µL) the method allows the detection of hemp even in the infinitesimal concentration of contaminants. Due to a SNP in position 603, hemp can be identified unequivocally and discriminated from its closest relative hops (Humulus lupulus). The PCR method shows no cross-reactivity with 39 of 46 tested plant species. Low cross-reactivity with mulberry, stinging nettle, lavender, cornflower, wine, figs and hops can be neglected, because the Δ Ct-values are > 14, and the obtained Ct-values are beyond the cut-off for a positive assessment (Ct-values ≤ 33). Moreover, the suitability of the method to identify hemp as a food ingredient was proved by analysing diverse food products such as chocolate or cookies.

A Review of Hemp as Food and Nutritional Supplement

The term "hemp" refers to Cannabis sativa cultivars grown for industrial purposes that are characterized by lower levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the active principle responsible for Cannabis psychotropic effects. Hemp is an extraordinary crop, with enormous social and economic value, since it can be used to produce food, textiles, clothing, biodegradable plastics, paper, paint, biofuel, and animal feed, as well as lighting oil. Various parts of the hemp plant represent a valuable source of food and ingredients for nutritional supplements. While hemp inflorescence is rich in nonpsychoactive, yet biologically active cannabinoids, such as cannabidiol (CBD), which exerts potent anxiolytic, spasmolytic, as well as anticonvulsant effects, hempseed has a pleasant nutty taste and represents a valuable source of essential amino acids and fatty acids, minerals, vitamins, and fibers. In addition, hempseed oil is a source of healthy polyunsaturated fatty acids, and hemp sprouts are rich in antioxidants. This review article aims to provide a comprehensive outlook from a multidisciplinary perspective on the scientific evidence supporting hemp beneficial properties when consumed as food or supplement. Marketing of hemp-derived products is subjected to diversified and complex regulations worldwide for several reasons, including the fact that CBD is also the active principal of pharmaceutical agents and that regulatory bodies in some cases ban Cannabis inflorescence regardless of its THC content. Some key regulatory aspects of such a complex scenario are also analyzed and discussed in this review article.

Exploitation of Vitis vinifera, Foeniculum vulgare, Cannabis sativa and Punica granatum By-Product Seeds as Dermo-Cosmetic Agents

In the current study, by-product seed pastes (VSPs) from Vitis vinifera, Foeniculum vulgare, Cannabis sativa and Punica granatum, generated during the oil production process, were investigated for their potential exploitation as dermo-cosmetic agent. The extraction pipeline of all the raw materials was developed with emphasis on green methodologies and employed on laboratory scale based on industry-adopted techniques. Two different protocols were applied, Supercritical Fluid Extraction (SFE) and Ultrasound Assisted Extraction (UAE); the by-product pastes were defatted with supercritical CO2 and n-Hexane, respectively. Then, two SFE extracts (CO2 with 10% and 20% of ethanol as co-solvent) and two UAE extracts (with ethanol and ethanol/water 1:1 v/v) were obtained from each raw material. The providing yield range was between 2.6 to 76.3 mg/g raw material. The extracts were analyzed with High-Performance Liquid Chromatography coupled with Diode Array Detector (HPLC-DAD) and Liquid Chromatography coupled with High-Resolution Mass Spectrometer (LC-HRMS), and the major compounds, were identified. All the extracts were evaluated for their antioxidant and inhibition activity against collagenase, elastase and tyrosinase enzymes. Grapevine by-product extracts found rich in proanthocyanidins and presented the higher inhibition activity. A holistic green experimental methodology is proposed for the obtainment of extracts from significant medicinal plants by-products that provides us with promising results concerning dermo-cosmetic properties, especially for grape seeds extracts.

Industrial Hemp (Cannabis sativa subsp. sativa) as an Emerging Source for Value-Added Functional Food Ingredients and Nutraceuticals

Industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L., Cannabaceae) is an ancient cultivated plant originating from Central Asia and historically has been a multi-use crop valued for its fiber, food, and medicinal uses. Various oriental and Asian cultures kept records of its production and numerous uses. Due to the similarities between industrial hemp (fiber and grain) and the narcotic/medical type of Cannabis, the production of industrial hemp was prohibited in most countries, wiping out centuries of learning and genetic resources. In the past two decades, most countries have legalized industrial hemp production, prompting a significant amount of research on the health benefits of hemp and hemp products. Current research is yet to verify the various health claims of the numerous commercially available hemp products. Hence, this review aims to compile recent advances in the science of industrial hemp, with respect to its use as value-added functional food ingredients/nutraceuticals and health benefits, while also highlighting gaps in our current knowledge and avenues of future research on this high-value multi-use plant for the global food chain.

Chemical Analysis of Minor Bioactive Components and Cannabidiolic Acid in Commercial Hemp Seed Oil

Although hemp seed (HS) oil is characterized by more than 80% polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), a very high ω-6-to-ω-3 ratio is not a popular commodity. The aim of this work was to provide useful data about the bioactive components and cannabidiolic acid content in thirteen different commercial hemp seed oils. The investigated HS oils showed a good ω-6/ω-3 ratio, ranging from 1.71 to 2.27, massively differed in their chlorophylls (0.041-2.64 µg/g) and carotenoids contents (0.29-1.73 µg/g), as well as in total phenols (22.1-160.8 mg Gallic Acid Equivalents (GAE)/g) and tocopherols (3.47-13.25 mg/100 g). Since the high content of PUFAs in HS oils, photo-oxidative stability was investigated by determining the Thiobarbituric Acid Reactive Substances (TBARS) assay and extinction coefficient K232 and K270 after the photo-oxidative test. The percentage of increase in K232 and K270 ranged from 1.2 to 8.5% and from 3.7 to 26.0%, respectively, indicating good oxidative stability, but TBARS showed a 1.5- to 2.5-fold increase in oxidative behavior when compared to the initial values. Therefore, the diversity in bioactive compounds in HS oils, and their high nutritional value, suggest the need for a disciplinary booklet that well defines agronomic and post-harvest management conditions for achieving a good food objective.

Insect Sterol Nutrition: Physiological Mechanisms, Ecology, and Applications

Insects, like all eukaryotes, require sterols for structural and metabolic purposes. However, insects, like all arthropods, cannot make sterols. Cholesterol is the dominant tissue sterol for most insects; insect herbivores produce cholesterol by metabolizing phytosterols, but not always with high efficiency. Many insects grow on a mixed-sterol diet, but this ability varies depending on the types and ratio of dietary sterols. Dietary sterol uptake, transport, and metabolism are regulated by several proteins and processes that are relatively conserved across eukaryotes. Sterol requirements also impact insect ecology and behavior. There is potential to exploit insect sterol requirements to (a) control insect pests in agricultural systems and (b) better understand sterol biology, including in humans. We suggest that future studies focus on the genetic mechanism of sterol metabolism and reverse transportation, characterizing sterol distribution and function at the cellular level, the role of bacterial symbionts in sterol metabolism, and interrupting sterol trafficking for pest control.

Microwave-assisted extraction of hempseed oil: studying and comparing of fatty acid composition, antioxidant activity, physiochemical and thermal properties with Soxhlet extraction

This work aimed to investigate the effects of the microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) on the hempseed (Cannabis sativa L.) oil yield, oxidation stability, and antioxidant activity. Power (300, 450, and 600 W) and time (5, 10, and 15 min) were independent variables while oil extraction yield, peroxide value (PV), p-anisidine value (AV), TOTOX value (TV), and DPPH scavenging activity were considered as dependent ones. Optimization was conducted by response surface methodology where the optimum point was 450 W and 7.19 min. In this point, the extraction yield obtained 33.91% w/w and the oil showed acceptable oxidation quality (PV of 2.5 meq/kg, AV of 0.67, and TV of 5.67) and antioxidant activity with the IC₅₀ value of 30.82 mg/mL. The Soxhlet extraction (SE) method was carried out to be compared with MAE. It showed relatively higher oil extraction yield (37.93% w/w) but lower oil oxidation stability with PV of 6.4 meq/kg, AV of 3.69, TV of 16.49, and higher amount of IC₅₀ 32.47 mg/mL which showed lower antioxidant activity. Any significant difference between fatty acid compositions was not observed with the dominant amounts of linoleic acid and α-linolenic acid. Also, the tocopherol contents and thermal properties were studied by HPLC and DSC, respectively. MAE showed higher total tocopherol content (929.67 mg/kg) than SE (832.61 mg/kg) and γ-tocopherol was dominant. Moreover, DSC analysis showed that both profiles (crystallization and melting transitions) are likely influenced mostly by the triglyceride compositions and crystals structure.

The effect of the subcritical fluid extraction on the quality of almond oils: Compared to conventional mechanical pressing method

This study investigated the effect of different almond oil extraction techniques, namely, cold-press extraction (CP), hydraulic press extraction (HP), and subcritical fluid extraction (SFE), on the fatty acid composition, physicochemical properties, bioactive substances, and thermal stability. The results showed that oleic acid and linoleic acid were the main unsaturated fatty acids in almond oil (AO). The overall physicochemical properties of the AO (SFE) had the better oil quality compared to cold-press extraction and hydraulic press extraction in three kinds of varieties. Almond oil extracted from SFE contained the highest levels of total phenolics (9.58-11.75 mg/100 g), total phytosterols (92.86-244.21 mg/100 g), total tocopherols, and tocotrienols (48.03-55.74 mg/100 g). Meanwhile, the TG/DTG curves showed AO (SFE) were more thermally stable than AO (CP) and AO (HP) consistent with the result of oxidative induction time. Subcritical fluid extraction may be a useful extraction technology to produce high-quality almond oils in the future.

Hempseed Oil Quality Parameters: Optimization of Sustainable Methods by Miniaturization

Industrial Hemp, Cannabis sativa L., is characterized by low content of THC (<0.2%). An edible oil with excellent nutritional proprieties is obtained from cold pressing of hempseed. Since Hempseed oil is not reported in a Regulation yet, in order to ensure quality parameters, it is necessary to optimize standard methods (taken from the Regulation for EVOO). In this work, the standard method of quality parameters (free fatty acidity, peroxide number, and anisidine number) were miniaturized and optimized for Hempseed oil matrix. The miniaturized methods result in being sustainable, in environmental and economical perspectives, by using a smaller amount of chemicals (e.g., reagents, solvents), also reducing waste production and the sample needed in relation to the high cost of the Hempseed oil (60–70 €/L). The standard methods of miniaturization, carried out by using the Central Composite Design, allow for great saving of sample (5.35 g vs. 29 g) and reagents (up to 50%).

Formulation, Characterization and Properties of Hemp Seed Oil and Its Emulsions

The formulation, characterization, and anticipated antibacterial properties of hemp seed oil and its emulsions were investigated. The oil obtained from the seeds of Cannabis sativa L. in refined and unrefined form was characterized using iodine, saponification, acid values, and gas chromatography, and was employed for the preparation of stable oil-in-water emulsions. The emulsions were prepared using pairs of non-ionic surfactants (Tween, Span). The effects of the emulsification method (spontaneous emulsification vs. high-intensity stirring), hydrophilic lipophilic balance (HLB), type and concentration of surfactant, and oil type on the size and distribution of the emulsion particles were investigated. It was found that the ability to form stable emulsions with small, initial particle sizes is primarily dependent on the given method of preparation and the HLB value. The most efficient method of emulsification that afforded the best emulsions with the smallest particles (151 ± 1 nm) comprised the high-energy method, and emulsions stable over the long-term were observed at HBL 9 with 10 wt % concentration of surfactants. Under high-intensity emulsification, refined and unrefined oils performed similarly. The oils as well as their emulsions were tested against the growth of selected bacteria using the disk diffusion and broth microdilution methods. The antibacterial effect of hemp seed oil was documented against Micrococcus luteus and Staphylococcus aureus subsp. aureus. The formulated emulsions did not exhibit the antibacterial activity that had been anticipated.

Bioactivities of alternative protein sources and their potential health benefits

Increasing the utilisation of plant proteins is needed to support the production of protein-rich foods that could replace animal proteins in the human diet so as to reduce the strain that intensive animal husbandry poses to the environment.