Unhulled (whole) hemp seeds keep their husk, which gives more fibre and a longer shelf life. Hulled seeds (hemp hearts) have the husk removed and are softer, with a higher concentration of protein and fat per gram. Both come from exactly the same seed — the difference is the husk.
What is the difference between hulled and unhulled hemp seeds?
The hemp seed consists of a thin, fibre-rich husk surrounding an oil-rich kernel. When the husk is left on, the seeds are called whole or unhulled; once it has been removed, the kernel is often called a hulled seed or hemp heart. The husk itself is dietary fibre, so unhulled seeds contribute more fibre. Because the husk makes up part of the seed's weight, the proportion of protein and fat per gram is, by contrast, higher in the hulled seeds — nothing has been added, it is simply the weight of the husk that has been taken away.
| Property | Hulled (hemp hearts) | Unhulled (whole) |
|---|---|---|
| Husk | Removed | Left on |
| Texture | Soft | Firmer, crunchier |
| Fibre per gram | Lower | Higher |
| Protein per gram | Higher concentration | Lower concentration |
| Fat per gram | Higher concentration | Lower concentration |
| Shelf life | Shorter (more prone to oxidation) | Longer (the husk protects the fat) |
| Germination | Will not germinate | Can germinate if viable |
Which are the healthiest?
Neither is "healthier" in any absolute sense — they are the same seed in two forms. Unhulled give more fibre and a firmer texture; hulled give a softer texture and a higher concentration of protein and fatty acids per gram. The hemp seed's fat has an unusual omega-6:3 balance of around 3:1, and the protein contains all nine essential amino acids in both forms (see hemp's nutritional profile).
Can you eat the husk?
Yes. The husk is edible fibre and does not need to be removed. Whole seeds are often eaten as they are — raw or lightly roasted (see how to use hemp seeds).
How do you hull hemp seeds?
Industrially, hemp seed is hulled mechanically: the husk is cracked and separated from the kernel. At home it is impractical because the kernel is small and soft — which is why hulled seeds are usually bought ready-made.
Which should you choose?
It depends on what you are after: more fibre and a longer shelf life (unhulled) or a softer texture and a higher protein/fat concentration (hulled). Hemp seed is a raw ingredient — the choice is a matter of taste and use, not a dose. For the unprocessed plant as a whole, see raw hemp.
FAQ
- What is the difference? Unhulled keep the husk (more fibre, longer shelf life); hulled have it removed (softer, higher protein and fat concentration per gram).
- Which are the healthiest? The same seed in two forms; unhulled give more fibre, hulled more protein and fat per gram.
- Can you eat the husk? Yes, the husk is edible fibre.
Sources: Callaway, J.C. (2004), Euphytica 140:65–72, USDA FoodData Central.
For shelf life and storage, see how long do hemp seeds keep?.