CORVALLIS, Ore. (KATU) — Oregon State University is paving the way for the future of the hemp industry.
Growers in Oregon weren't able to grow hemp until 2018, but OSU researchers were able to begin their work in 2019, according to OSU's Jeffrey Steiner.
The university began a formal partnership with the Department of Agriculture in 2022.
The two will now work together to raise $5.5 million in new funding.
“If you think about the hemp plant, you know, hemp is a very versatile plant,” Steiner said. “Hemp plants bloom, and those flowers produce chemicals like CBD, and fragrances and flavors. It also produces a variety of aromatic substances that can be used as However, we are not actually looking at the flower part of the plant, but rather the rest of the plant, which consists primarily of the stem. ”
The stems could be used to make a variety of materials such as insulation, building blocks, and even plastics.
“Therefore, hemp could be used to make recyclable and biodegradable spoons and forks,” says Steiner.
The fiber can also be used to make textiles that are used to make parts for shoes, pants, and shirts.
When it comes to food, Steiner says tofu could be a plant-based protein source.
“You know, we're looking at it in a very holistic way, from seeds to products to markets, and not just locally but nationally,” Steiner added.
