Researchers in the U.S. are studying the benefits of cryogenic freezing on cannabinoids. The findings could have a dramatic impact on the industry, from growers to end users.
[Cryogenics] can play an important role at several points in the hemp value chain:
- Harvesting – Flash freezing freshly-harvested industrial hemp with liquid nitrogen prior to storage can help prevent biomass degradation or mold while locking in the chemical content.
- Processing – Adding liquid nitrogen when grinding biomass material, to eliminate heat and oil stickiness that causes machine clogging and downtime.
- Extraction – For ethanol extraction, using the ultracold properties of liquid nitrogen to maintain temperatures in the less than -80⁰C range for precise extraction.
- Packaging – Dosing the final product with a small amount of liquid nitrogen to provide against oxidation or moisture, enhancing oil quality and shelf-life.
- Inerting/Blanketing – Keeping oils free from moisture and oxygen via nitrogen blanketing to extend shelf-life, and to meet best practices standards for safety and quality.
Read the full article at hemptoday.net