Over the past decade, hemp-based foods have vaulted from fringe health niches into mainstream grocery aisles, driven by growing consumer interest in plant-powered nutrition. At the vanguard of this movement stands Manitoba Harvest, a trailblazer who has shaped the foundation of the hemp foods category. Founded in Canada shortly after industrial Hemp was legalized, the company has cultivated a reputation for delivering premium, nutrient-dense products while championing environmental stewardship and transparency. Today, Manitoba Harvest claims a Certified B Corporation status and holds one of the industry’s first Carbonzero certifications, underscoring its commitment to sustainability and responsible sourcing. From humble beginnings in Winnipeg to a global footprint spanning approximately 17,000 retail outlets across North America, Manitoba Harvest’s dedication to quality—from seed to shelf—remains. Whether you’re a devoted vegan seeking complete plant proteins, a paleo enthusiast optimizing fatty acid intake, or simply curious about adding a superfood crunch to your meals, Manitoba Harvest’s legacy and product lineup makes them a go-to choice in the crowded hemp marketplace.

What Is Manitoba Harvest? Brand Overview

Manitoba Harvest Hemp Foods sprang to life in 1998, strategically timed with the legalization of industrial Hemp in Canada. As one of the earliest entrants in the hemp food sector, it adopted a vertically integrated “seed-to-shelf” model, overseeing every phase of production—from contract farming to retail distribution—to ensure consistency, purity, and traceability. The company’s pioneering ethos was further validated when it became the first Canadian food company to achieve a Carbonzero certification. It earned Certified B Corporation status, signaling its dual focus on profit and the planet.

In February 2019, Manitoba Harvest was acquired by Tilray, Inc., a leading cannabis and wellness company, in a landmark transaction valued at CA$419 million. The acquisition united Manitoba Harvest’s established distribution network—which spanned over 13,000 U.S. stores and thousands more in Canada—with Tilray’s cannabis expertise and resources, setting the stage for developing innovative Hemp and CBD-infused food offerings. Despite this strategic alignment, Manitoba Harvest continues to operate under its brand umbrella, preserving its commitment to sustainable agriculture, regenerative farming partnerships, and rigorous quality standards, including third-party testing and GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status granted by the U.S. FDA.

Manitoba Harvest’s Product Range

Manitoba Harvest offers a diverse portfolio designed to integrate seamlessly into various dietary routines and culinary applications. Central to its lineup are:

• Hemp Hearts – Raw, shelled hemp seeds with a tender texture and mild nutty flavor, delivering 10 g of complete plant protein and 12 g of combined omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids per 3 tbsp serving. Rich in all nine important amino acids, these versatile kernels can be added to smoothie bowls, baked into bread, or blended into yogurt for a simple and quick nutritional boost.
• Hemp Seed Oil & Softgels—Cold-pressed hemp seed oil offers 12 g of omegas 3 and 6 per serving and imparts a green, chlorophyll-rich hue that enhances dressings, sauces, and dips. For on-the-go supplementation, soft gel capsules deliver precise, mess-free doses of essential fatty acids, including gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), with three capsules providing 780 mg of omegas.
• Broad-Spectrum Hemp Extract – Leveraging the leaves and flowers of the hemp plant, Manitoba Harvest’s broad-spectrum hemp extract (CBD tincture) captures the entourage effect of cannabinoids and terpenes without detectable THC. This product caters to those seeking natural stress relief and holistic wellness support, although it is subject to regional shipping restrictions.
• Hemp Protein Powders – The Hemp Yeah! and Max Protein lines deliver 15–20 g of protein per scoop, with options ranging from unflavored to chocolate and vanilla blends. These powders combine hemp protein with pea protein or fiber to optimize amino acid profiles and digestive tolerance, making them ideal for post-workout shakes or as a flour substitute in baking.
• Other Offerings – Manitoba Harvest rounds out its superfood selection with hemp granolas, Hemp, and Hemp. Yeah! Bars (10 g protein, 6 g omegas per bar) and specialty seed blends like Hemp + Chia & Flax cater to snackers and recipe developers seeking variety and convenience.

This comprehensive assortment ensures that whether you’re seeking raw seeds for snacking, concentrated oils for culinary finesse, or protein powders for functional nutrition, Manitoba Harvest has an option that aligns with your health goals and taste preferences.

Key Benefits

• Complete Plant Protein: Unlike many plant-based sources, hemp hearts provide all nine essential amino acids, earning them the status of a complete protein. This makes them invaluable for vegans, vegetarians, and athletes seeking to meet daily protein requirements without relying on animal products.
• Balanced Essential Fatty Acids: With a 3:1 ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fats, Manitoba Harvest’s hemp products support cardiovascular health, cognitive function, and healthy inflammatory responses. Their oils and softgels further amplify these benefits for those needing higher fatty acid intake.
• Micronutrient-Rich & Versatile: Beyond protein and omegas, hemp hearts deliver vital minerals such as magnesium, zinc, iron, phosphorus, and dietary fiber. This nutrient density makes them suitable for keto, paleo, gluten-free, and vegan diets. Their mild flavor renders them adaptable to sweet and savory recipes alike.
• Sustainability & Transparency: By partnering with regenerative farms and maintaining full supply-chain traceability, Manitoba Harvest champions soil restoration and biodiversity. Their certifications—B Corp, Carbonzero, GRAS—underscore a holistic approach to consumer health and environmental impact.

These combined advantages position Manitoba Harvest’s offerings as more than just ingredients; they become integral to building a well-rounded, health-focused lifestyle.

Potential Drawbacks

• Shelf-Life & Storage: Due to their high unsaturated fat content, hemp hearts and hemp oil can oxidize and become rancid if not stored properly. Manitoba Harvest recommends refrigerating hemp hearts and oils after opening to preserve freshness for up to a year for seeds and several months for oils.
• Premium Pricing: Quality sourcing, vertical integration, and sustainable practices carry cost implications. At roughly $0.95 per ounce for hemp hearts on major platforms, Manitoba Harvest products are priced above many store-brand or conventional seed alternatives—consumers may find more budget-friendly options elsewhere.
• Flavor Nuances: While most users appreciate the nutty profile of hemp hearts, some may detect earthy or grassy undertones that don’t suit standalone snacking. Integrating them into recipes or flavored blends often improves palatability for sensitive palates.
• Regulatory & Regional Limits: Manitoba Harvest’s CBD-based tinctures and extracts are unavailable in all jurisdictions due to local regulations, which may restrict access for interested consumers.

By weighing these considerations—storage requirements, cost, taste preferences, and product availability—shoppers can determine if Manitoba Harvest meets their practical needs.

User Reviews & Clinical Testing

Manitoba Harvest hemp hearts boast a robust average rating of 4.8 stars from over 22,000 Amazon reviewers. Fans praise their ease of use, stackability, and digestive comfort when added to meals. Consumers often highlight the convenience of softgels as an alternative to fish oil capsules, noting fewer gastrointestinal side effects and a pleasant neutral taste.

However, independent laboratory assessments have raised occasional quality flags. ConsumerLab reported detectable levels of cadmium and arsenic in specific hemp heart batches, recommending that vulnerable populations (e.g., children) review recent Certificates of Analysis before consumption. Similarly, a January 2025 lab report by Tamara Rubin’s team initially found trace heavy metals in select lots, though follow-up testing showed many batches to be within safe limits. Manitoba Harvest’s published COAs and third-party audits demonstrate a commitment to transparency and ongoing quality assurance, but diligent shoppers should verify batch-specific results to maintain confidence.

How Manitoba Harvest Compares to Competitors

Feature	Manitoba Harvest Hemp Hearts	Nutiva Organic Hemp Protein Powder	Bob’s Red Mill Hulled Hemp Seed Hearts
Protein per Serving	10 g per 3 tbsp	15 g per 3 tbsp (Protein Peak)	5 g per 2 tbsp
Omega-3 & -6 Content	12 g per 3 tbsp	2 g per serving (unsweetened blend)	9 g PUFAs per serving
Key Certifications	Non-GMO, Kosher, Vegan, Paleo, Keto	USDA Organic, Non-GMO, Vegan	Non-GMO, Vegan, Gluten-Free
Price Approx.	$0.95/oz (Amazon)	$1.78/oz (Amazon)	$0.93/oz at retail
Sustainability Focus	B Corp, Carbonzero, Regenerative Farms	USDA Organic sourcing; non-hexane processing	Dedicated gluten-free facility; minimal processing

While Nutiva emphasizes USDA Organic certification and a focus on cold-processed purity, and Bob’s Red Mill offers broad retail availability and strong gluten-free credentials, Manitoba Harvest stands out for its holistic approach to sustainability, rigorous traceability, and pioneering Carbonzero commitments.

Environmental & Ethical Sourcing Practices

Manitoba Harvest’s commitment to environmental stewardship begins at the seed level. By partnering exclusively with regenerative hemp farms across Canada and the northern United States, the company supports agricultural practices that rebuild soil health instead of depleting it. Cover cropping, diverse crop rotations, and minimal tillage are standard on partner farms—techniques proven to enhance microbial activity, sequester atmospheric carbon, and reduce erosion. This “living soil” approach yields healthier hemp plants and contributes to cleaner waterways and greater biodiversity in surrounding ecosystems.

Beyond cultivation methods, Manitoba Harvest has pursued rigorous third-party certifications to validate its sustainability claims. As a Certified B Corporation, the brand undergoes an extensive assessment of its social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. Likewise, its Carbonzero certification tracks emissions across the entire supply chain—from farm to processing facility—offsetting unavoidable greenhouse gases through verified carbon credit projects. These dual accolades signal to consumers that Manitoba Harvest doesn’t just talk about sustainability; it measures, reports, and improves.

Transparency remains a core principle. Each product batch is accompanied by a publicly accessible Certificate of Analysis detailing everything from fatty acid profiles to potential contaminants. Packaging choices further reflect ethical priorities: recyclable materials, soy-based inks, and a gradual transition to post-consumer recycled plastics wherever feasible. Finally, Manitoba Harvest invests in local communities through fair-wage agreements with co-ops and farmer education programs, ensuring economic and ecological resilience. The brand’s environmental and ethical sourcing practices exemplify a holistic, science-backed approach to sustainable food production.

Storage, Shelf-Life & Best-Use Tips

The quality of hemp products can be significantly impacted by how they are stored. Hemp hearts, with their delicate oils, are especially prone to oxidation. Once opened, transfer them from the original bag into an airtight glass or BPA-free container and stash them in the refrigerator. This slows rancidity and preserves their nutty aroma for up to 12 months. If you buy in bulk, divide your stash into smaller portions: leave one container at fridge temperature and pop the rest into the freezer. Frozen hemp hearts last well beyond a year; you can thaw individual portions as needed.

Hemp seed oil demands similar care. After opening, seal the bottle tightly and refrigerate it. Look for a faint green hue—which indicates chlorophyll-rich freshness—but beware of cloudiness or a sharp, acrid smell, both of which indicate spoilage. Unopened hemp oil can sit in a cool, dark pantry for up to 12 months; once opened, aim to use it within 3–4 months.

Protein powders and CBD tinctures enjoy longer shelf lives but still merit mindfulness. Store powders in a dry, cool spot—away from direct sunlight and humidity—to prevent clumping. Most powders remain optimal for 12–18 months. Avoid keeping tinctures near the stove or windowsill since prolonged exposure to heat and light can degrade cannabinoids. Instead, keep the dropper jar upright in a cabinet or drawer at room temperature.

Best-Use Tips

• Stir hemp hearts into smoothies right before blending to preserve texture.
• Drizzle hemp oil over salads or cooked grains; never heat it, as high temperatures can destroy its fatty acids.
• Add protein powder to chilled liquids or room-temperature recipes to maintain smoothness.
• For CBD tinctures, start with a small test dose (5–10 mg) and gradually increase based on the effect.

Pricing Breakdown & Value Analysis

When evaluating the actual cost of Manitoba Harvest products, it’s helpful to break prices down by serving size and compare across retail channels. On Amazon, a 16-ounce bag of Hemp Hearts typically retails between $15 and $18, translating to roughly $0.94–$1.13 per ounce. Walmart often undercuts this by a few dollars, listing the same size at about $13–$15 (around $0.81–$0.94 per ounce). Thrive Market members can see even deeper savings—bundles and subscription options drive the per-ounce price to somewhere in the $0.75–$0.85 range, depending on promotional deals and auto-ship frequency.

Cost per gram of protein also provides perspective: a standard 3-tablespoon serving of Hemp Hearts delivers 10 g of protein. At $1.00 per ounce (~ 28 g), that works out to about $0.36 per serving, or $0.036 per gram of protein—an attractive rate compared to many plant-based protein powders, which can cost $1.00–$1.50 per serving. For those eyeing oil and softgels, a 16.9 fl oz bottle of cold-pressed hemp seed oil runs around $20–$24 (about $1.18 per fluid ounce), while a 60-soft gel jar often falls in the $18–$22 range, or roughly $0.30–$0.37 per capsule.

Buying in bulk can further defray costs: some natural-food wholesalers and club stores offer 3- to 5-pound bags of seeds for as low as $0.70 per ounce, though such quantities require diligent storage. Subscription services likewise present value: setting up auto-deliveries for oils or powders often unlocks 10–15% off each reorder. When weighing budget against quality, Manitoba Harvest’s premium sourcing and rigorous testing justify the modest price premium for health-focused consumers—especially if you prioritize transparency, sustainability, and nutrition per dollar spent.

Where to Buy & Availability

Manitoba Harvest products are broadly accessible across multiple retail and online channels, ensuring you can find precisely the hemp-based items you need when you need them. Direct-to-consumer purchases on the Manitoba Harvest website often unlock exclusive bundle deals, flash sales, and first-time subscriber discounts. You’ll also find their full product range—hemp hearts, oils, powders, and CBD tinctures—available on major e-commerce platforms like Amazon, Thrive Market, and Walmart.com. Each site frequently runs promotions—think “Subscribe & Save” at Amazon for 5–15% off recurring orders or Thrive Market’s members-only flash coupons—so it pays to keep an eye on your cart.

Look for Manitoba Harvest in the natural foods aisles of Whole Foods, Sprouts Farmers Market, Kroger, and Publix in brick-and-mortar outlets. Many independent co-ops and specialty health stores carry hemp hearts and oils year-round, often at competitive prices. National grocery chains like Loblaws and Sobeys stock the brand’s signature products for those in Canada. At the same time, European customers can explore availability through select health-food importers or the brand’s UK-specific online shop.

CBD tincture availability is more nuanced. Due to regional restrictions, shipping is limited to states where broad-spectrum hemp extracts are legal; check Manitoba Harvest’s online shipping policy or contact customer support for the latest list of eligible regions. If you live in an unsupported area, third-party retailers or dispensaries in legal jurisdictions may carry the tinctures in-store.

Finally, don’t overlook local farmers’ markets and wellness expos. Manitoba Harvest frequently attends health fairs, offering samples and promotional pricing you won’t find elsewhere. Whether you prefer digital convenience or in-person discovery, Manitoba Harvest ensures that their science-backed, ethically sourced hemp products are never far from reach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can hemp hearts go rancid?

Yes. Hemp hearts contain delicate polyunsaturated fats that oxidize when exposed to heat, light, or air. Transfer opened hemp hearts into an airtight glass or BPA-free container to slow rancidity and refrigerate. For bulk buys, freeze extra portions in sealed bags; they remain fresh for over a year.

Are Manitoba Harvest hemp hearts gluten-free and allergen-friendly?

Absolutely. Their hemp hearts are naturally free of major allergies, including dairy, soy, and nuts, as well as gluten and genetically modified organisms. They’re produced in a facility that handles only Hemp, minimizing cross-contact risks and making them suitable for most restricted diets.

How should I store hemp seed oil versus CBD tincture?

• Hemp Seed Oil: Keep refrigerated after opening, use within 3–4 months, and avoid heating to preserve omegas.
• CBD Tincture: Store upright in a cool, dark cupboard away from heat or direct sunlight. This protects cannabinoids and terpenes from degradation over its 12- to 18-month shelf life.

What distinguishes broad-spectrum hemp extract (CBD tincture) from hemp seed oil?

Cold-pressed from seeds, hemp seed oil is rich in omegas but lacks cannabinoids. Broad-spectrum hemp extract is derived from flowers and leaves, offering CBD plus minor cannabinoids and terpenes (without detectable THC), targeting wellness benefits like stress relief and sleep support.

How much protein do hemp hearts provide?

Each three-tablespoon meal provides ten grams of complete plant protein, including all nine necessary amino acids. At roughly $0.36 per serving, hemp hearts are a powerful, whole-food protein source for vegans, vegetarians, and athletes alike.

Do Manitoba Harvest products contain THC?

No. Their hemp hearts, seed oils, and protein powders contain zero THC. Broad-spectrum hemp extract (CBD tincture) undergoes processing to remove detectable THC, ensuring legal compliance and no psychoactive effects.

How much CBD should I take from the tincture?

Start low and go slow. Begin with 5–10 mg daily (about one half to one full dropper, depending on concentration). Monitor effects for several days before adjusting. Most adults find 20–40 mg daily provides balanced support, but optimal dosage varies by body weight and individual needs.

Are Manitoba Harvest products sustainably and ethically sourced?

Yes. They partner with regenerative farms using cover cropping, minimal tillage, and diverse rotations to rejuvenate soil and capture carbon. Certified B Corp and Carbonzero accreditations validate their social and environmental impact, while public Certificates of Analysis ensure complete transparency.

Where can I buy Manitoba Harvest products?

Available online at Manitoba Harvest’s website, Amazon (with Subscribe & Save), Thrive Market, and Walmart.com. Check Whole Foods, Sprouts, Kroger, Publix, and natural-food co-ops in stores. Canadian shoppers will find them at Loblaws and Sobeys; Europeans will have them available via select importers and the UK store.

Can I cook or bake with hemp oil?

Because heating destroys its fragile fatty acids, hemp oil is best used cold—drizzled over salads, blended into dressings, or stirred into smoothies post-cooking. For baking, opt for hemp hearts or protein powders, which withstand higher temperatures without losing nutritional integrity.

Conclusion

From its pioneering launch in the late 1990s to its current status under Tilray’s wing, Manitoba Harvest has continually redefined the standards for hemp-based nutrition. Boasting a broad range of products—from protein-packed hemp hearts to cold-pressed oils, convenient soft gels, and versatile protein blends—the brand caters to diverse dietary lifestyles with an unwavering commitment to quality, sustainability, and transparency. While premium pricing and careful storage practices warrant consideration, the nutritional advantages, eco-friendly credentials, and reliable supply-chain traceability make Manitoba Harvest a standout choice for health-conscious consumers. Whether you’re seeking to elevate your smoothie game, optimize omegas, or explore the benefits of broad-spectrum hemp extracts, Manitoba Harvest remains a trusted partner on your wellness journey.