In what is believed to be a New Zealand first, Nelson-based Chia Sisters has launched an innovative new range of plant protein smoothies made with hemp. Bottled by solar power, the ready-to-drink hemp smoothie is, they claim, one of the most innovative and sustainable products on the market.
The Chia Sisters Hemp Protein Superfood Smoothie range is designed to be enjoyed on-the-go as a snack and boasts some strong health credentials in its category.
The range is now available in two flavours using all natural and plant-based ingredients, crafted from Canterbury hemp protein, fruits, greens and ground chia seeds. The superfood smoothie is low in sugar without any artificial ingredients. The flavours include:
- Berry (blueberry, strawberry, boysenberry, blackcurrant and ground chia)
- Cacao and banana (with strawberry and ground chia)
The smoothies will be produced by New Zealand’s first and only solar powered juicery in Nelson and bottled in recycled glass. Bringing one of the most nutritious foods and best sources of plant protein on the planet to kiwi consumers, the sister-duo is excited for the future of New Zealand’s burgeoning hemp industry and the opportunities it could create for a more sustainable farming future, as well as the health benefits it brings.
Florence Van Dyke, co-founder of Chia Sisters said: “Hemp is one of the world’s most sustainable forms of protein. This combined with a rich nutritional profile means it is forecasted to be a world leader in the health and wellness space in New Zealand between now and 2022.”
“As a crop, hemp has a significant positive environmental impact, requiring relatively little water to grow and soaking up five times the CO2 of the average tree. As the most sustainable source of protein in New Zealand, hemp was the natural choice for Chia Sisters’ latest innovation.
The launch of the hemp protein products is another step in Chia Sisters’ ambitious growth plan to be world leaders and innovators in the health food industry.
Chia Sisters’ new smoothie range further cements its sustainability focus for the business, following on from the announcement in July that Chia Sisters is not only a carbon-neutral company, but also a climate-positive company through off-setting 120% of carbon emissions emitted by natives plantings in the local Rameka forest, an Emissions Trading Scheme certified carbon sink. The Chia Sisters Hemp Protein Superfood Smoothie range is now available at selected hospitality and retail outlets across New Zealand.
