Process for treating hemp seed

Abstract

A process for the extraction of protein and / or oil from peeled hemp seed involves mixing the peeled hemp seed with another plant-based material that includes fibers. The mixture of hemp seed and the other plant-based material is then pressed in a press apparatus to separate oil from the mixture. The other plant-based material can be characterized by the absence of negative taste or smell, and preferably also by a neutral color. The plant-based material can include oat fiber, preferably oat bran. The process can be efficiently executed in one single stage.

Description

[0001] Process for treating hemp seed

[0002] Field

[0003] The technology pertains to the field of food processing and nutrition, specifically focusing on the extraction of valuable nutrients from plant-based sources. It also relates to the development of processes and apparatus for the extraction of protein and oil from seeds, particularly hemp seeds.

[0004] Background

[0005] The extraction of protein and oil from hemp seeds has been a subject of interest due to the nutritional benefits of these components. Hemp seeds are known to contain a complete protein, meaning they provide all nine essential amino acids, a feature that is rare among plant-based sources. Additionally, hemp seeds also contain a significant amount of oil, which has been recognized for its beneficial properties, particularly in skincare.

[0006] However, the extraction of these components involves challenges. There are various methods for extraction of oil and protein from hemp seed, but cold pressing, where the process is performed at a low temperature, typically below 40°C, is preferred for many applications, as healthy components in protein and oil are best preserved. Traditional methods for cold pressing often involve the use of the whole hemp seed, including the hulls. While this method is efficient in terms of oil and protein recovery, it results in end products with undesirable sensory properties and low protein proportion. Specifically, both the hemp protein and oil extracted through this method have an unpleasant taste and smell, typically perceived as a smell of grass and hey, and a brownish color, which are derived from the hemp seed hulls. These attributes limit the use of hemp protein and oil in various applications, particularly in food products where taste, smell and color are crucial factors influencing consumer acceptance. Also in cosmetic applications, e.g. skincare, smell and color impact attractiveness.

[0007] An alternative method involves the use of dehulled hemp seeds, which eliminates the problem of unpleasant taste and color. Such method is described in US 2024 / 0000104 A1. However, this method requires a multi-stage process which reduces the overall efficiency of the extraction process. Each stage requires additional time, energy, and resources, making the overall extraction process less efficient compared to a single- stage process.

[0008] In summary, the prior art in the extraction of hemp seed protein and oil presents a trade-off between efficiency and product quality. Traditional methods that are efficient in terms of extraction yield products with undesirable sensory properties, while methods that yield products with better sensory properties are less efficient. This presents a significant challenge in the commercial production of hemp seed protein and oil.

[0009] Summary

[0010] According to a first aspect of the invention, a process for extraction of protein and / or oil from peeled hemp seed by cold pressing, comprises the steps of combining peeled hemp seed with another plant-based material, by mixing the peeled hemp seed with the other plant-based material to a mixture, wherein the other plant-based material comprises fibers, and pressing the mixture of hemp seed and the other plant-based material in a press apparatus to separate oil from the mixture. This process leverages the nutritional benefits of hemp seeds while enhancing the extraction efficiency and quality of the final products. An advantage of this method is that it allows for the efficient extraction of valuable components from hemp seeds, resulting in high-quality protein and oil products. A specific advantage is that the process can be performed efficiently, without the final products becoming impaired by sensory properties conveyed from hemp seed hulls.

[0011] According to a preferred embodiment of the process, the other plant-based material is characterized by the absence of negative sensory properties, such as in particular negative taste or smell, and preferably also characterized by a neutral color. This ensures that the final product maintains a pleasant sensory profile, making it more appealing for consumption and use in various applications. An advantage of this embodiment is that it ensures that the final product is free from undesirable sensory attributes, enhancing its marketability and consumer acceptance. Neutral sensory properties, such as lack of taste smell or color, are in particular beneficial as they open up more opportunities for mixing the final product with other substances, without impacting the sensory properties of the mixed product. Sensory properties do in relation to the invention particularly relate to taste, smell and color. The terms negative, neutral or positive sensory properties relate herein to properties typically agreed to by a majority of people exposed thereto. Bad smell or unpleasant taste are properties many people often agree on. The definition relied upon in decisions as to whether a sensory property is positive or negative, is that a typical diverse panel of a people exposed to the sensory property by tasting, smelling and viewing, would come to a majority conclusion on whether a sensory property is positive, negative or neutral.

[0012] In another preferred embodiment, the other plant-based material comprises water soluble fibers. Such plant-based material has generally been found to support the pressing process in a good way, while also providing many good properties of the final protein product in combination with hemp seed protein. Plant based fibers from oat, psyllium and inulin, have in particular been observed to provide good properties to a final protein product.

[0013] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the other plant-based material comprises oat fiber, preferably oat bran. Oat material, specifically oat seed comprising fibers are one example of a suitable plant material the does not present negative sensory properties. Such oat materials have also proven to provide for an efficient pressing process. Oat seed fibers, particularly oat bran, is known for its high content of beta-glucans, which are beneficial for health. This combination not only aids in the pressing process but also enriches the final product with additional nutritional benefits. An advantage of this embodiment is that it enhances the nutritional profile of the final product, making it more beneficial for health-conscious consumers. Another benefit provided by the use of oat is that protein produced this way has very good water retention capability, due to the presence of beta-glucans. Protein products with good water retention capability are attractive in various applications, such as in meat analogues and protein shakes.

[0014] According to another preferred embodiment, the other plant-based material is provided in a ratio of between 2% and 40% of the weight of the mix of hemp seed and the plantbased material. Within this specific ratio interval an optimal balance between the hemp seed and the plant-based material has been observed, facilitating efficient pressing and extraction processes while also providing a valuable protein product. Good results have been observed in ratios above 3%, with better results observed in ratios above 4%. Good results have also in general been observed in ratios below 30% with better results observed in ratios below 20%. Very good results have specifically been experienced in the ratio interval 5%-10% by weight of the plant-based material in relation to hemp seed. In the particular example where the other plant-based material is oat, in particular oat bran, this interval has proven very good results both regarding efficient process and regarding the quality of the protein material extracted.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment, the process is executed in one single stage. This way an efficient and cost-effective process is guaranteed. A large benefit of the process according to the invention is that the combination of peeled hemp seed and another plant-based material, makes it possible to provide high quality end products also in one single pressing procedure. It is in particular preferred to use a continuous pressing process, as this provides for high production efficiency.

[0016] According to a second aspect of the invention, a hemp seed-based protein material, being derived from the aforementioned process. This protein material retains the nutritional benefits of hemp seeds and the added plant-based fibers, making it a high- quality protein source. An advantage according to this aspect is that it provides a high- quality protein product that can be used in various dietary and nutritional applications, catering to the growing demand for plant-based proteins.

[0017] According to a third aspect of the invention, a hemp seed-based protein material is characterized by comprising a share of 6%-60%, preferably a share of 10%-45%, of another plant-based material comprising fibers. According to a preferred embodiment, the hemp seed-based protein material comprises beta-glucans, preferably in a concentration of 0,3%-3%. Beta-glucans are known for their health benefits, including enhancing immune function and lowering cholesterol levels. By incorporating betaglucans, the protein material offers additional health benefits, making it an even more attractive option for health-conscious consumers. Additionally, the inclusion of betaglucans provides the protein material with attractive water retention capacity. An advantage of this embodiment is that it enhances the health benefits of the protein material, making it more appealing to consumers looking for functional foods. It is in particular advantageous when the plant-based material is free from producing negative taste or smell, preferably having a neutral taste and smell. This ensures that the protein material is not only nutritionally rich, but for incorporation into a variety of food products.

[0018] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, hemp seed-based oil is characterized by being derived from the aforementioned process. This oil retains the beneficial fatty acids and other nutritional components of hemp seeds, making it a valuable product for both culinary and cosmetic applications. An advantage of this claim is that it provides a high-quality oil product that can be used in a wide range of applications, from cooking to skincare, enhancing its versatility and market appeal.

[0019] According to a fifth aspect of the invention, a facility for producing oil and / or protein from hemp seed comprises a first storage for peeled hemp seed, including a first dispensing means; a press apparatus for pressing hemp seed, comprising a press chamber, an oil outlet connected to the press chamber, and a press cake aperture connected to the press chamber. The first dispensing means is arranged to dispense peeled hemp seed to the press apparatus. Additionally, the facility is characterized by a second storage for a plant-based fibrous material, including a second dispensing means arranged to dispense the plant-based fibrous material to the press apparatus, and a mixing means provided between the first and second dispensing means, and the press apparatus, providing for the peeled hemp seed and the other plant-based fibrous material to be combined before pressing. An advantage of such facility is that it provides a comprehensive and integrated facility for the efficient production of high- quality hemp seed-based oil and protein according to the process of the invention, streamlining the production process and ensuring consistent product quality.

[0020] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0021] Examples are described in more detail below with reference to the appended drawings.

[0022] Figure 1 is a schematic view of a facility for cold pressing of hemp seed, Figure 2 is a flowchart for a process to cold press hemp seed, in accordance with a presently preferred embodiment of the invention.

[0023] Detailed Description

[0024] The detailed description set forth below provides information and examples of the disclosed technology with sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosure.

[0025] Figure 1 provides a schematic representation of a facility 1 specifically designed for the cold pressing of hemp seeds. This facility 1 enables the extraction of valuable components, such as protein and oil, from hemp seeds while preserving their nutritional value and is suitable for using together with the process described in Figure 2. The facility's design facilitates a controlled and efficient process, ensuring the production of high-quality hemp-based products. The facility depicted in Figure 1 illustrates the practical implementation of the invention, demonstrating the arrangement and interconnection of various components involved in the cold pressing process.

[0026] The facility 1 for producing oil and / or protein from hemp seed may for initial stages of the process comprise a dehulling apparatus, not illustrated, for peeling of hemp seed also known as dehulling of hemp seed. It should be noted that various dehulling apparatus examples are known and will thus not be closer described herein. Instead, a process and facility using peeled hemp seed as input will be closer described in the following.

[0027] The facility 1 for producing oil and / or protein from hemp seed comprises a first storage 20 for a first ingredient in the form of peeled hemp seed 2. The first storage 20 comprises a first container 21 , such as a buffer silo, for storing peeled hemp seed 2, and a first dispensing means 22, in the form of a first feeder screw, which is arranged for moving and dispensing peeled hemp seed towards a press apparatus 10.

[0028] The facility 1 further comprises a second storage 30 for a second ingredient in the form of another plant-based material 4. The second storage 30 comprises a second container 31 for holding the plant-based material 4 therein. The second storage 30 further comprises a second dispensing means 32 in the form of a second feeder screw for moving and dispensing the plant-based material 4 towards a press apparatus 10. The second feeder screw 32 has an inlet, connected to the outlet of second container 31 , and an outlet in its other end.

[0029] In the illustrated example feeder screws 22 and 32 are rotating helical screws enclosed within a tube. Such feeder screws generally offer a compact and efficient method for transporting plant-based material, such as peeled hemp seed 2 vertically or horizontally, but other types of dispensing means may also be applicable.

[0030] The facility 1 further comprises a mixing means 40 for combining peeled hemp seed 2 and plant-based material 4 before pressing. The mixing means 40 comprises an inlet, a mixing zone, and an outlet. The mixing means inlet is connected to the respective outlets of the feeder screws 22, 32. In the mixing zone, peeled hemp seed 2 and the other plant-based material 4 are combined or mixed to a mixture 5 before exiting the mixing means 40 through the outlet, which is connected to the press apparatus 10.

[0031] As mentioned above, the facility 1 comprises a press apparatus 10, which comprises a press feeder screw 11 , a press means 12, an oil vessel 16, and a press cake container 18. The press feeder screw 11 comprises an inlet connected to the outlet of mixing means 40, an outlet connected to an inlet of the press means 12, and is arranged to feed the mixture 5 into the press means 12.

[0032] The press means 12 comprises a press chamber (not illustrated) and a press member (not illustrated) positioned inside the press chamber. The press member is arranged to set the mixture in the press chamber under pressure. The press means 12 can be executed in various ways. In the preferred embodiment, the press means 12 is a screw press, also known as an expeller press, which is common type of press used for cold pressing hemp seed, utilizing a press member in the form of a rotating press screw within a cylindrical press chamber to compress the mixture, gradually increasing the pressure as the material moves along the chamber. The pressure within the press chamber is generated by the resistance encountered by the mixture as it is compressed by the rotating screw. The pressure typically increases gradually along the length of the chamber, reaching its maximum near the discharge point. The press chamber forms a press-channel and the walls of press chamber comprises small openings for oil (not illustrated) and a press cake outlet 14. Typically, the small openings for oil are provided in the press chamber wall upstream of the press cake outlet 14. In the exemplary embodiment, the small openings for oil are provided in the side wall of the press chamber, whereby the press cake outlet 14 is provided in or close to an end wall of the press chamber. Thereby oil is extracted from, i.e. pressed out of, the mixture 5 before the mixture 5 reaches the press cake outlet 14. The press means 12 also comprises an oil channel, which connects the small openings with an oil outlet 13. The press cake outlet 14 is arranged for a press cake 6 comprising the remains of the mixture 5, after extraction of oil, and includes hemp seed based protein material.

[0033] The press apparatus 10 may further comprise an oil vessel 16 placed at the oil outlet

[0034] 13 for receiving hemp seed based oil 8 extracted from the mixture 5. The press apparatus 10 may also comprise a press cake container 18 placed at press cake outlet

[0035] 14 for receiving press cake 6 extracted therefrom.

[0036] A presently preferred embodiment of a process in accordance with the invention will now be presented with reference to Figure 1 and Figure 2. Figure 2 provides a flowchart outlining a process of cold pressing hemp seed to recover hemp oil and hemp protein. This flowchart illustrates the sequential steps involved in the method, highlighting the key stages and their interconnections. By presenting the process in a clear and concise manner, Figure 2 is provided to enhance the understanding of the invention's practical application. The flowchart in Figure 2 serves as a visual aid to guide the reader through the various stages of the cold pressing method, facilitating a comprehensive grasp of the invention's operational flow.

[0037] The embodiment illustrates use of the cold pressing method, which unlike heatintensive extraction techniques, minimizes nutrient degradation, ensuring that the final products retain their health-promoting properties.

[0038] In summary, the extraction process begins with the preparation of the two main ingredients: hemp seed and a plant-based material. The hemp seed undergoes a dehulling process to separate the hulls from the hearts, which are rich in oil and protein. The peeled hemp seed 2, i.e. the hearts, and the plant-based material are then combined in specific proportions to create a mixture optimized for cold pressing. This mixture is subsequently fed into a press apparatus 10, where pressure is applied to extract the oil. The separated oil and the remaining press cake, containing hemp protein, are then collected and processed separately. The oil undergoes filtration to remove impurities, while the press cake is further treated to obtain hemp protein powder.

[0039] In the following, different steps of the process will be closer described.

[0040] In Process Step 106, the hemp seed are dehulled, separating the outer shell (hulls) from the inner kernel (hearts) forming peeled hemp seed. This step is crucial for obtaining the desired peeled hemp seed, as residual hulls in the hearts can negatively impact the quality and yield of the extracted oil and protein.

[0041] Once the hemp seeds are peeled, the next step involves separating the hulls from the hearts. This separation process ensures that the subsequent extraction steps focus solely on the nutrient-rich hearts, maximizing the yield and quality of the final products. Effective hull separation is crucial to prevent the hulls from contaminating the extracted oil and protein, which could negatively impact their flavor, color, and nutritional value.

[0042] In Step 108, the hulls are sorted from the hearts, ensuring the separation of these two distinct fractions. Hemp hulls produced in this process step are a byproduct and are removed and not used in the further steps. There are various methods and variations in equipment for dehulling of hemp seed and for separating hulls from hearts, which will not be closer discussed herein. The important factor for the following process steps is that peeled hemp seed 2 is provided, with no or a very low residual rate of hemp hulls.

[0043] In Step 112, the peeled hemp seed, i.e. the hemp seed hearts, rich in oil and protein, are introduced and stored in the hemp seed container 21 , providing a temporary storage under controlled conditions to maintain its quality and freshness until further processing. In Step 114, the hemp seed hearts are moved towards a press apparatus 10 by feeder screw 22.

[0044] In Step 116, another plant-based material 4 is introduced and stored in the container 31 for plant-based material 4, typically also in the form of a buffer silo.

[0045] The other plant-based material 4, distinct from hemp, is used to enhance the efficiency of the cold pressing process, without impairing the sensory characteristics of the final hemp-based products. A key preferred attribute of this plant-based material is that it exhibits neutral taste, smell, and color, ensuring that it does not impart any undesirable flavors, aromas or colors to the final products. This neutrality makes the hemp seed oil and protein produced through this invention more versatile and appealing to a wider range of consumers. The plant-based material is chosen based on its ability to facilitate the extraction of oil from the peeled hemp seed 2 during pressing. It typically achieves this by creating a porous matrix within the press chamber, allowing the oil to flow more freely. This results in a higher yield of hemp seed oil and a drier press cake, which is advantageous for further processing. This ability to create a porous matrix in the press chamber is in particular provided by fibers. Thus, it is highly preferred to use plantbased material comprising eatable fibers, preferably with a high fiber content. It is further preferrable to use a plant-based material with a high content of protein, having the ability to provide the final product with a high protein content.

[0046] In addition to facilitating the pressing step and improving the yield for an efficient process, the other plant-based material also may impact the properties of the final product, hemp seed based oil and protein. Therefore, it is preferred to use plant-based material containing substances providing beneficial and attractive properties to the end products. The applicant has found that water soluble fibers, which dissolve in water forming a gel like substance during digestion, provide many advantages in combination with hemp seed protein. Water soluble fibers are generally known to beneficially slow digestion, provide satiety, lowering cholesterol and support the control of blood sugar levels. Water soluble fibers are typically found in oats, barley, beans, peas, lentils, nuts, seeds, and fruits like apples and bananas. By combining hemp protein with water soluble fibers, a number of advantages has been observed. When dissolving powder of hemp protein combined with water soluble fibers, a better texture and stability of the drink produced can be observed as particles dissolve better and sink slower, preventing sedimentation. A better satiety is achieved, as the fibers jellify and grow in the digestive system. A probiotic effect is achieved, which is good for the intestinal flora. Additionally, a uniform absorption of amino acids is observed, by slower gastric emptying.

[0047] Out of the different fibrous plant-based materials holding water soluble fibers, three ingredients have in tests been found to provide particularly beneficial combinations with hemp seed protein. Applicant has found that oat in particular oat seed, is a fibrous plant-based material, which on one hand provides for an efficient production process and on the other hand provides the end products with advantageous properties. Therefore, the other plant-based material is or comprises preferably oat, which has good effect in the cold pressing process, and for the end products. Of specific value is the use of oat bran due to its extra high content of beta-glucans. Such combinations provide for low cholesterol, stable blood sugar levels and extra nutrients (B vitamin, minerals and some protein). Additionally, psyllium, in particular psyllium husk, has been found to add good properties to a mixture with hemp seed protein, due to it’s good jellifying properties, binding particles and reducing sedimentation. This provides for satiety and uniform absorption. Psyllium husk also has a beneficial neutral taste.

[0048] A further preferred plant-based material for combining with hemp seed protein is inulin, in particular inulin from chicory root, which is a probiotic fiber with a slightly sweet taste. The addition of inulin provides for a good intestinal flora and adds an attractive taste to hemp seed protein. It should also be noted that different plant-based materials comprising water soluble fibers can be combined with hemp seed, separately or in combination, providing a combined protein material based on hemp seed protein.

[0049] In Step 118, the other plant-based material 4, here exemplified in the form of oat bran, is transported towards the press apparatus 10, from the second container 31 by the second dispensing 32 means in the form of the second feeder screw, in a similar manner as the transport of peeled hemp seed 2.

[0050] In Step 119, the hemp hearts and the oat fibers are thereafter transported to and combined in a mixing means 40 to form a mixture 5. As indicated with reference to Figure 1 , peeled hemp seed 2 is provided to the inlet of mixing means 40 via the outlet of feeder screw 22, whereas the other plant-based material 4 is provided to the inlet of mixing means 40 via the outlet of second feeder screw 32.

[0051] The peeled hemp seed 2 and the plant-based material 4 each are combined or mixed in precise proportions to create a mixture 5 optimized for cold pressing. The ratio between peeled hemp seed 2 and the other plant-based material 4 is in the example typically regulated by control of the amount per time interval provided via the first and second dispensing means 22, 32, respectively. The optimal ratio of peeled hemp seed 2 to plant-based material depends on factors such as the specific plant-based material used, the desired oil extraction yield, and the intended application of the final products. Typically, the plant-based material is provided in a ratio between 2% to 40% of the total weight of the mixture 5 for good pressing efficiency and end product properties. The ratio of hemp seed to plant-based material can be adjusted to achieve desired product characteristics and extraction yields. The combining or mixing process ensures a sufficiently homogeneous mixture 5 in the later pressing step, which is crucial for consistent oil extraction and the uniform distribution of components in the final products.

[0052] Different tests, in particular with plant-based material comprising water soluble fibers, have indicated that good results regarding efficient pressing and good end product properties for various applications are as mentioned above achieved with mixing ratios of 2% or higher, of plant-based material in relation to total weight of the mixture with, peeled hemp seed. Better results have been provided with ratios above 3% and even better results with ratios above 4%. Best results for a variety of applications have been provided at 5% and higher. As also mentioned above, good results have been provided by ratios below 40% by weight. Better results have been provided in ratios below 30% and even better results in ratios below 20%. Best results for a variety of applications have presently been observed at ratios of 10% and lower.

[0053] In Step 120, the mixture 5 of peeled hemp seed 2 and oat fibers 4 are introduced into a pre-press feeder screw 11. It should be noted that various embodiments of apparatuses for pressing are available. In the illustrated example, the press feeder screw 11 feeds the mixture 5 under raised pressure into the press chamber of press means 12. It should also be noted that further mixing of the components, peeled hemp seed 2 and other plant-based material 4 of the mixture 5 may take part during the process of feeding the mixture 5 into the press chamber.

[0054] In Step 122, the mixture 5 of hemp seed hearts and oat fibers are subject to pressure inside the press chamber of the press apparatus 10. The pressure forces the oil to separate from the mixture.

[0055] The pressing process is at the core of the invention, where the oil is extracted from the mixture 5 of peeled hemp seed 2 and plant-based material 4. The mixture 5 is fed into the press apparatus 10 specifically designed for cold pressing. The press apparatus 10 applies controlled pressure to the mixture 5, forcing the oil to separate from the solids. This controlled application of pressure forces the oil to separate from the solid matrix, resulting in the extraction of hemp seed oil. The pressure disrupts the cellular structure of the hemp seeds, releasing the oil, which then flows through the surrounding matrix. The efficiency of oil separation depends on factors such as the pressure level, the permeability of the press cake, and the physical properties of the oil. As the mixture 5 progresses through the press chamber under pressure, the oil is gradually extracted, leaving behind the increasingly compacted press cake. The pressurization process continues until most of the oil has been extracted from the mixture. The pressing screw, continues to propel the press cake forward and the remaining solid material, known as press cake, primarily composed of the defatted hemp seed meal and the plant-based material, is then discharged from the press, while the extracted oil is collected separately.

[0056] The size and shape of the press cake outlet 14 are designed to control the pressure within the press chamber together with the design of the pressing screw. As mentioned above with reference to Figure 1 , oil is extracted from the mixture 5 via the small openings provided in the wall of the press chamber upstream of the press cake outlet 14, into the oil channel and out through the oil outlet 13.

[0057] The temperature during the pressing process is carefully controlled to maintain the cold-pressed status, preserving the nutritional and sensory attributes of the oil. The pressing process has been illustrated with a continuous process using a screw press. It should be noted that the inventive process is equally applicable on a batch process. It should also be noted that a continuous process is preferrable due to its larger efficiency.

[0058] After pressing, the process separates into two streams: one for the extracted oil and the other for the remaining press cake. The press cake 6, containing valuable hemp protein, undergoes further processing to recover and refine this nutrient-rich byproduct. The press cake is first collected and then subjected to a series of steps, including crushing, milling, and potentially additional treatments, to separate the hemp protein from the remaining fibrous material. The specific post-pressing processes applied to the press cake depend on the desired purity and characteristics of the final hemp protein product.

[0059] For some applications, in particular with the other plant based material being provided in a low mixing ratio, it may be suitable to recirculate some of the press cake into the press together with fresh mixture of hemp seed and plant based material. Even in such cases, it should be noted that considerably less press cake is suitable to recirculate compared to pressing without addition of the other plant based material.

[0060] In Step 124, the oil that is filtered out through the small openings of the wall of the press chamber is recovered in an oil vessel 16 for temporary storage.

[0061] In Step 126, the oil 8 from vessel 16 is subject to an after-treatment process, as the separated oil still might contain small particles of hemp seed or plant-based material 4. In this process oil 8 is filtered to remove any remaining solid particles, ensuring its purity and quality, whereafter clean oil is recovered. The filtration process typically involves passing the oil through a series of progressively finer filters to remove any remaining solids and ensure clarity. Additional treatments may be applied depending on the intended use of the oil and the desired sensory characteristics.

[0062] The hemp seed-based oil, efficiently extracted during the pressing process, has good qualities making it suitable for culinary uses, cosmetic formulations, or other applications. The sensory properties of the final products, particularly the hemp seed oil, are enhanced by the cold pressing method.

[0063] In Step 130, the press cake 6 ejected through the press cake aperture 14 is collected for temporary storing in the press cake container 18. The press cake 6 typically contains less than 10% oil and residues from plant-based material 4 and hemp protein. A low oil amount is important for the properties of the protein powder.

[0064] In Step 132 the press cake is subject to an after-treatment process, whereby it is crushed and milled and whereafter a hemp based protein powder is recovered. A crusher is typically used to create a more efficient milling process. The final product is an efficiently produced protein powder without negative smell, taste or color, but with good properties when dissolved in water. When the plant-based material 4 comprises - partly or in full - oat, the protein powder holds unique characteristics such as taste neutrality, bright color, very good water-holding ability, good gelling ability. The betaglucans also lower blood sugar levels and can reduce harmful cholesterol.

[0065] The protein-based material that can be produced through this process has been found to receive positive properties from the adding of another plant-based material in the production process. Specific factors identified having impact the properties of the final protein material are content of fibers, in particular water soluble fibers, protein and specifically beta-glucans. As mentioned above, very good properties have been achieved by the inclusion of oat seed material, in particular oat bran.

[0066] By mixing hemp seed and another plant-based material, in particular a plant-based material comprising water soluble fibers, in weight proportions 2-40 %, a hemp based protein material with good properties for a wide range of applications is produced. Of particular benefit is mixing hemp seed with oat bran in weight proportions 3%-40% a hemp-based protein material, in particular a protein powder, is produced having product properties comprising ca 6%-60% oat and correspondingly 70-40% protein. The beta glucan content in these mixing ratios vary in the interval 0,3% -3% by weight. By providing oat bran and hemp seed in various ratios within these intervals, a range of protein powders with properties suitable for various application can be provided. A mixing ratio 5%-30% of the other plant-based material, in particular oat bran, has been found to be especially advantageous. Very good product properties for various applications are achieved with a mixture with 5-%10% oat bran.

[0067] A specific advantage of including oat is that end-product will be gluten free.

[0068] It is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the aspects described above and illustrated in the drawings; rather, the skilled person will recognize that many changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the present disclosure and appended claims. In the drawings and specification, there have been disclosed aspects for purposes of illustration only and not for purposes of limitation, the scope of the disclosure being set forth in the following claims.

Claims

Claims1 . A process for extraction of protein (6) and / or oil (8) from peeled hemp seed (2) by cold pressing, wherein the process comprises the steps of:- combining (step 119) peeled hemp seed (2) with another plant-based material (4) by mixing the peeled hemp seed (2) with the other plant-based material (4) to a mixture (5), wherein the other plant-based material (4) comprises fibers; and- pressing (step 122) the mixture (5) of hemp seed (2) and the other plant-based material (4) in a press apparatus (10) to separate oil (8) from the mixture (5).

2. The process according to claim 1 , wherein the other plant-based material (4) is characterized by the absence of negative sensory properties, and preferably also by a neutral color.

3. The process according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the other plant-based material (4) comprises water soluble fibers, and wherein the plant-based material preferably comprises at least one of oat, psyllium or inulin.

4. The process according to claim 3, wherein the other plant-based material (4) comprises oat fiber, preferably oat bran.

5. The process according to any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the other plant-based material (4) is provided in a ratio of between 2% and 40% of the weight of the mix of hemp seed (2) and the plant-based material (4), whereby the ration preferably is 3% or higher, more preferably 4% or higher and most preferably is 5% or higher, and where by the ratio preferably is 30% or lower, more preferably 20% or lower and most preferably 10% or lower.

6. Process according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the process is executed in one single stage, preferably in a continuous process.

7. Hemp seed based protein material (6), c h a r a c t e r i z e d i n that it is derived in a process according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. A hemp seed based protein material (6), characterized in, that it comprises a share of 6%-60% of another plant-based material (4), comprising fibers, wherein said fibers preferably include beta-glucans, wherein said beta-glucans preferably are provided in concentration of 0,3%-3% by weight.

9. Hemp seed based oil (8), c h a ra cte ri ze d i n that it is derived by a process according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

10. A facility for producing oil and / or protein from hemp seed, wherein the facility comprises: a first storage (20) for peeled hemp seed (2), comprising a first dispensing means (23); and a press apparatus (10 for pressing hemp seed, comprising- a press chamber,- an oil outlet (13), connected to the press chamber, and- a press cake aperture (14), connected to the press chamber; wherein the first dispensing means (23) is arranged to dispense peeled hemp seed to the press apparatus (10), characterized by, a second storage (30) for a plant-based fibrous material (4), comprising a second dispensing means 32) arranged to dispense the plant-based fibrous material to the press apparatus (10), and a mixing means (40) provided between the first and second dispensing means (23, 32), and the press apparatus (10), providing for hemp seed and the other plant-based fibrous material to be combined before pressing.

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