Information about Quinoa - Supergrain of the Future

November 2, 2001

QUINOA

Supergrain of the Future

Source: Ancient Harvest Brand Quinoa package/modified

Quinoa (pronounced keen-wa) is a grain that comes from the Andes Mountains of

South America. Quinoa's origins are truly ancient. It was one of the three

staple foods, along with corn and potatoes, of the Inca civilization. Quinoa

was know then, and still is known with respect as the mother grain. . .also

called the supergrain of the future.

Quinoa contains more protein than any other grain; an average of 16.2 percent,

compared with 7.5 percent for rice, 9.9 percent for millet, and 14 percent for

wheat. Some varities of quinoa are over 20 percent protein.

Quinoa's protein is of an unusually high quality. It is a complete protein,

with an essential amino acid balance close to the idea.

Quinoa's protein is high in lysine, methionine and cystine. This makes it an

excellent food to combine with, and boost the protein value of, other grains

(which are low in lysine), or soy (which is low in methionine and cystine).

Quinoa is a rich and balanced source of vital nutrients. Besides its unique

protein, quinoa also provides starch, sugars, oil (high in essential linoleic

acidO, fiver, minerals, and vitamins.

Quinoa is light, tasty, and easy to digest. It is not sticky or heavy like most

other grains, and it has a delicious flavor all its own.

Quinoa is quick and easy to prepare. A whole-grain dish of quinoa takes just 15

minutes.

Quinoa is versatile. It can be substituted for almost any grain in almost any

recipe. It looks and tastes great on its own, or in any dish from soup to

salad.

Quinoa is perfect for summertime use. Many people eat grains only during the

colder months, but quinoa's lightness combined with its versatility in cold

dishes like salads and desserts makes it an ideal source of good summertime

nutrients.

~ We cannot be just unless we are kind-hearted.

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