What is Quinoa?

Quinoa is another ancient Aztec seed. Quinoa is an edible seed that is fast becoming very popular, especially for people interested in increasing their protein intake.

Quinoa is close to being a perfect food source in the balance of nutrition it provides. It is an excellent source of protein - 12% to 18%. According to The National Academy of Sciences, quinoa is "one of the best sources of protein in the vegetable kingdom". Quinoa contains the amino acid lysine that helps the body produce protein. It also helps the body process the protein in the quinoa and in other foods. The World Health Organization has rated the quality of protein in quinoa to be equivalent or superior to that found in milk products. Quinoa is a source of all essential amino acids. It's a great source of B vitamins containing niacin, thiamin and B6.It contains high levels of potassium and riboflavin. It's also good source of zinc, copper, and manganese, and magnesium. It contains folic acid and vitamin E. Quinoa is gluten free and considered easy to digest. 1/2 a cup of quinoa contains enough protein for a child for a day!