Quick Summary
What did CL’s hemp seed tests find?
ConsumerLab tested six popular brands of hulled, organic hemp seeds and found two contaminated with mold at nearly 3X and 9X the accepted spoilage limit. These were, therefore, NOT APPROVED. The other products passed, and price didn’t predict quality: a 3-tablespoon serving ranged from 61¢ to $1.55.
Fortunately, none of the products were found to be contaminated with other microbes (E. coli, Staph, Salmonella, and Listeria); none exceeded safety limits for heavy metals (lead, arsenic, cadmium, and mercury); and all contained listed nutrients within a reasonable margin. (See What CL Found). 
Which hemp seed product came out on top?
From the brands that passed and were APPROVED for quality, CL named one its Top Pick for hemp seed, with no detectable mold or yeast, and a price lower than most of the competition.
Hemp seed products tested and reviewed are 365 Organic Hemp Seed, Bob’s Red Mill Hemp Seed Hearts, Kirkland Signature Organic Hemp Hearts, Manitoba Harvest Hemp Hearts, Terrasoul Superfoods Hemp Seeds, and Trader Joe’s Organic Shelled Hemp Seeds.
What are hulled hemp seeds (hemp hearts)?
They’re the soft, edible inner kernels of hemp seeds — small, mildly nutty, and rich in protein and healthy fat. When fresh, they’re pleasantly chewy and make an easy add-on to meals. They’re also mineral-packed, delivering about 50% of your Daily Value for magnesium per 3-tablespoon serving. (See What It Is).
See our separate Reviews of products containing hemp protein, hemp oil, hemp milk, and hemp extracts/CBD.
