In this episode, Tyler Hemp and Ebba Maria Olson dive deep into Sweden's evolving hemp industry, the unique challenges and opportunities of cultivating hemp in Europe, and how Mossa Garden is leading the way with hemp-based foods like hemp cheese and hemp-carrot ice cream.
Together, they explore the cultural perceptions surrounding hemp, its powerful potential for regenerative agriculture, and the vital role of education in sparking a new generation’s passion for this remarkable plant.
Whether you're a hemp enthusiast, eco-conscious consumer, or curious entrepreneur, this episode is packed with insight and inspiration from one of Sweden's most innovative hemp ambassadors.
Guest Bio:
Ebba Maria Olson grew up as the youngest of five siblings on a family farm in Mossa Gordon, where her parents made an early commitment to organic farming after the family moved there in 1981.
Her childhood was spent exploring fields, tasting harvests, and learning the rhythms of nature alongside her family.
This close connection to the land and sustainable practices inspired Ebba to pursue a life and career dedicated to working within nature’s limits and fostering ecological synergies.
She credits her parents for shaping her values and supporting her journey from playful days on the farm to a purposeful path in harmony with the environment.
Absolutely! Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the topics covered in this episode of HempAware Podcasts (“Ebba Maria Podcast HempAware Radio”) featuring Tyler Hemp and Ebba Maria Olson:
1. Introduction to the Guest and Mossa Garden
- Overview of Mossa Garden, an organic family farm in Sweden
- Historical background: farm origins dating back to 1811, transition to organic farming in 1985
- Ebba Maria’s role: taking over as CEO in 2005, and her family’s contribution
2. Evolution and Expansion of Mossa Garden
- Development of the farm shop and direct organic delivery services
- Launch of one of Sweden’s first online vegetable box services (1998)
- Continuation of family-driven, community-oriented values
3. Introduction of Hemp at Mossa Garden
- How and when hemp was introduced (first hemp seeds planted in 2007)
- Ebba Maria’s father’s innovative approach to agriculture
- Initial focus on supplying the construction industry with hemp stems
4. Practical Aspects of Hemp Cultivation
- Early procurement of hemp seeds and seed sourcing challenges
- EU regulations on seed propagation (must buy new certified seeds each year)
- Regulatory motivations: stabilizing THC levels, addressing prescribed cannabinoid levels
5. Product Development and Hemp Applications
- Transition to utilizing hemp seeds for food products after initially targeting construction uses
- Harvesting process: seeds in autumn, stems in spring
- Main product offerings:
- Hemp oil (cold-pressed from seeds)
- Whole (raw) hemp seeds and “peeled” (hulled) hemp seeds
- Hemp-based cheese (including varieties for pizza and spreads)
- Hemp ice cream (notably a hemp-carrot flavor)
6. Legal and Regulatory Environment in Sweden and the EU
- Extra limitations on using hemp flowers and buds for products (compared to other countries)
- Evolving regulations;
- Ebba Maria Olson
- focuses on legally compliant products
7. Cultural Perception and Stigma Around Hemp
- Efforts to destigmatize hemp through public events (e.g., Mossa Goren Festival)
- Successes in food competitions (e.g., Eat Stockholm food competition, Green Week in Berlin)
- Increased consumer and governmental interest and acceptance (while noting lingering governmental caution)
- The historical “wiping out” of hemp from Swedish culture and the process of reintroduction
8. Education and Community Engagement
- Impact of early educational outreach, including the memorable “hemp maze” festival experience for local children
- Importance of reaching the younger generation and fostering positive narratives around hemp
9. Online Presence and Accessibility
- E-commerce platforms: mossagarden.se and mossagarden.com
- Reflection on the farm’s longstanding web presence and modernization
10. Organic & Regenerative Agriculture Advocacy
- Ebba Maria Olson’s commitment to organic farming methods and soil health
- Critique of non-organic practices (use of chemicals and synthetic fertilizers)
11. Advice for Aspiring Hemp Entrepreneurs
- Encouragement of small-scale hemp businesses and innovation
- Suggestion to draw inspiration from historical uses and adapt products for today
12. Consumer Experience and Product Philosophy
- Emphasis on “sensoric” experiences—food appealing to the senses and high quality
- Advocacy for plant-based diets and minimizing animal agriculture routes
13. Vision for Hemp’s Role in the Future
- The role of hemp nutrition in creating a healthier planet
- Frustrations with chemical dependencies in agriculture
- Desire for hemp to drive the regenerative organic movement
14. Invitation and Collaboration Opportunities
- Invitation to visit Mossa Garden, tour the hemp barn, or participate in farm activities
- Call for collaborators to help expand their impact in Sweden’s hemp industry
15. Closing Reflections
- Ebba Maria Olson’s parting message: “Hemp food really is for life and power to the organic farmer.”
- Tyler Hemp’s gratitude and encouragement to listeners
Can you get a million people to vote for Hempfood for Life in the Eat!
Stockholm competition?
HEMP ICE CREAM for the win!!!
Because we are in the finals of the ~
Audience Award ~ and voting is open until 28/11:
www.menti.com – code 5381 0340
Vote for us: Hempfood for Life – circular hemp ice cream with blueberry and crooked carrots!
Links here if you want to spread the word hemp-globally
http://ätstockholm.se/hempfood-for-life-cirkular-hampaglass/
https://www.instagram.com/mossagarden_eko/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ebbamariaolson/recent-activity/all (Ebba-Maria Olson)
Thank you thank you THANK YOU for anything you can do small as BIG ~
From one hemp heart to another.
Let’s make
HEMP ICE CREAM
happen worldwide!!!
