Innovative products designed for crisis situations, made from locally sourced Latvian hemp, honey, and berries, and utilizing a short supply chain

In recent years, the area of hemp cultivation in Latvia has been increasing, supported in part by the introduction of new, Latvia-bred varieties. Currently, the majority of hemp fields are used for seed production. However, hemp cultivation still represents only 0.12% of the total area declared for support, for several reasons: hemp cultivation requires a strong knowledge base and advanced technologies, and there is not yet a well-developed processing and marketing network in Latvia. Most of the harvested seeds are exported as unprocessed seeds. Therefore, both the area of hemp cultivation and potential income could significantly increase if processing were further developed.
LPKS ‘Lādzeres grauds’ brings together farms cultivating hemp across approximately 450–500 hectares. In 2023, the company created the “KANEPEX” brand to promote hemp seed processing and currently offers high-quality hemp products to consumers, such as hemp protein powder, hemp oil, and hulled seeds. The company plans to further develop the hemp processing sector by introducing new hemp-based products for consumers
Through collaboration between farmers, researchers, and consultants, the project will develop two research directions. The first will seek solutions for a new hemp cultivation technology by altering the female/male plant ratio in dioecious hemp varieties, ultimately aiming to increase seed yield. The second direction will focus on creating innovative new food products with significantly improved properties and technical parameters, made from local raw materials and utilizing a short supply chain. These conveniently portioned products will include nutrient-rich ingredients: hemp seeds, honey products, sea buckthorn, and cranberry processing by-products. The new products are intended to be long shelf-life items with high energy and nutritional value, suitable for use in crisis situations and for active individuals. This will stimulate consumer interest and demand for hemp and increase the export potential of hemp products. By involving small berry and honey processors in the project, local business collaboration will be fostered, including the formation of short supply chains (supplier farms are located within 5 to 30 km of LPKS ‘Lādzeres grauds’).