A Beginner’s Guide to Hemp Products and the Farm Bill

If you’ve heard a lot about hemp in recent years, you’re not alone. From CBD oils and hemp protein powder to clothing and construction materials, hemp products are everywhere. But what exactly is hemp, and how did it become such a popular commodity? A big part of this change comes from the 2018 Farm Bill, a landmark piece of legislation that played a major role in reshaping the hemp industry in the U.S. Here’s a beginner’s guide to understanding hemp products and the Farm Bill’s impact.

What is Hemp?

Hemp is a variety of the cannabis plant species Cannabis sativa. Unlike marijuana, which is also a type of cannabis, hemp contains very low levels of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol)—the compound responsible for the “high” in marijuana. By definition, hemp contains 0.3% or less THC by dry weight. Because of its low THC content, hemp is non-intoxicating, making it an ideal source for a variety of products without the psychoactive effects associated with marijuana.

Hemp has been cultivated for thousands of years for its fibers, seeds, and oils, and in recent years, it has seen a resurgence as a sustainable crop with a wide range of applications. It can be used for everything from textiles and paper to food and wellness products.

What Are Hemp Products?

Hemp is incredibly versatile, and products made from hemp fall into several categories:

1. CBD and Other Cannabinoid Products: One of the most popular uses for hemp today is the extraction of cannabidiol (CBD) and other cannabinoids like CBG and CBN. CBD products are used in oils, tinctures, gummies, topicals, and even pet products. These are often used for wellness purposes such as reducing anxiety, promoting sleep, or managing chronic pain.

2. Hemp Seeds: Hemp seeds are a superfood rich in essential fatty acids, protein, and fiber. They can be eaten raw, roasted, or ground into flour. Hemp protein powder is commonly used in smoothies or shakes for a plant-based protein source.

3. Hemp Oil: Hemp seed oil, extracted from the seeds of the hemp plant, is a popular ingredient in cooking, skincare, and hair care products. It’s rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and is known for its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties.

4. Hemp Fiber: Hemp fibers are incredibly strong and durable, making them ideal for textiles, ropes, and other materials. Hemp fabric is known for being eco-friendly, breathable, and biodegradable. It’s used in everything from clothing to furniture upholstery.

5. Hemp Paper: Hemp has long been used for paper products. Hemp paper is more durable and environmentally friendly than traditional wood pulp paper because hemp grows faster and requires fewer pesticides and water to produce.

6. Hemp-Based Plastics: Hemp can also be used to make biodegradable plastics, offering a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based plastics. These materials are being used in everything from car parts to packaging.

7. Hemp Construction Materials: Hemp is also making its way into the construction industry with materials like hempcrete, an eco-friendly alternative to concrete. Hemp can also be used for insulation and flooring.

What is the 2018 Farm Bill?

The 2018 Farm Bill, formally known as the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, was a landmark piece of legislation that legalized the commercial production of hemp in the United States. This bill was pivotal in the hemp industry’s revival because it removed hemp from the list of controlled substances, allowing farmers to legally grow hemp for the first time in over 80 years.

Key aspects of the 2018 Farm Bill include:

1. Legalizing Hemp Cultivation: The Farm Bill legalized hemp cultivation on a federal level, allowing farmers to grow hemp for industrial use. This opened the door to the production of hemp-derived products like CBD and hemp fibers, and it created a regulated market for these goods.

2. Defining Hemp: The Farm Bill clearly defined hemp as cannabis plants containing no more than 0.3% THC by dry weight. Any cannabis plant that exceeds this limit is classified as marijuana, which remains illegal under federal law (though some states have legalized marijuana).

3. Regulating CBD: The Farm Bill paved the way for the production and sale of hemp-derived CBD products, as long as they contain less than 0.3% THC. However, the FDA still regulates CBD products, especially those intended for medicinal purposes, and has not approved CBD as a dietary supplement or a drug (except for Epidiolex, a CBD-based drug for epilepsy).

4. Creating Research and Pilot Programs: The bill established a framework for state-run hemp research programs and pilot programs to help develop the hemp industry. This has allowed more research into the plant’s potential health benefits, industrial uses, and agricultural practices.

5. Industrial Hemp Use: Hemp can now be used in a variety of industries, including food, medicine, cosmetics, construction, and textiles. The bill promoted the development of hemp-based products as a sustainable, eco-friendly alternative to traditional materials.

How Did the Farm Bill Impact the Hemp Industry?

The passage of the 2018 Farm Bill revolutionized the hemp industry in several ways:

1. Explosion of the CBD Market: One of the most significant effects of the Farm Bill was the rapid growth of the CBD industry. With the legalization of hemp cultivation, thousands of hemp farms sprang up across the U.S., and a vast number of companies began producing CBD-based products like oils, tinctures, gummies, and topicals. The growing acceptance of CBD for wellness purposes also led to its inclusion in food and beverage products.

2. Increased Investment: With hemp now a legal crop, investors have poured money into the industry. This includes funding for hemp farming, processing facilities, research into hemp products, and new technologies. As a result, the hemp market has seen significant growth, and many companies are working on innovative uses for hemp in industries like plastics, textiles, and biofuels.

3. Regulated Standards for Hemp Products: The Farm Bill’s clear definition of hemp and hemp products created a more regulated market. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) developed guidelines for hemp farming and processing, and states were given the authority to regulate hemp production. This helped ensure quality control in hemp products, especially in the CBD market.

4. Challenges and Uncertainty: While the Farm Bill helped expand the hemp industry, it didn’t remove all challenges. The regulatory environment around CBD remains complex, with ongoing issues related to labeling, marketing, and FDA approval. Additionally, some states have slower processes for licensing and regulating hemp farming, which can create inconsistencies across the country.

Is Hemp Legal Now?

Yes, hemp is legal in the U.S., thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill, but with some important caveats:

• Hemp-derived CBD: CBD products that contain less than 0.3% THC are legal federally. However, individual states can impose their own regulations, so it’s important to check your state’s laws regarding hemp-derived CBD.

• Hemp Farming: Farmers can legally grow hemp, but they must adhere to state and federal regulations. States need to create their own hemp programs, and the USDA oversees hemp farming standards.

• THC Limits: Hemp must contain no more than 0.3% D9THC to remain legal. Cannabis plants with more than 0.3% D9THC are still classified as marijuana and are subject to state and federal marijuana laws. A range of cannabis products with under 0.3% D9THC (gummies, drinks, smokable hemp) are now available for purchase through traditional retailers and online.