Organic White Quinoa

For over 6,000 years, the people of the Andes Mountains have been producing one of the healthiest and hardiest grain-like crops in the world: quinoa. The grain was one of the primary crops of the region, and was considered to be so sacred to the ancient Incans that they named it “The mother of all grains”, and used it in their elaborate religious ceremonies. Unfortunately, when the Spanish colonizers took over the region in the 16th century, they considered its use heretical, and subsequently banned it from being grown and consumed. Fortunately, recent years have seen the resurgence of quinoa seeds as a food source, and modern scientists and nutritionists have vindicated the Incan’s reverence for the grain.

The quinoa seed is a good source of balanced nutrition. It contains significant amounts of carbohydrates, protein, dietary fiber, and a unique combination of eight amino acids that are essential for the growth and development of our muscle and tissues. Quinoa seeds are also a good source of linoleic acid, which is a member of the omega-6 group of essential fatty acids. Scientists are currently studying the full extent of its cancer prevention capabilities, and a large intake of linoleic acid is recommended to combat the malabsorption of nutrients of children afflicted with cystic fibrosis, and is the only reliable treatment for dermatitis, or the inflammation of the skin. Diabetics can also benefit from a diet rich in linoleic acid. Studies have shown that it helps attenuate the various complications of the disease, helping afflicted people lead healthier and more normal lives.

Quinoa seeds are also packed with vitamins and minerals. It contains thiamine, riboflavin, vitamin B6, Folate, and vitamin E. It is also a good source of iron, magnesium, potassium, phosphorous, and zinc. With so much nutritional value contained in one seed, it is hardly a surprise that it can be used to treat and prevent a wide variety of ailments and illnesses. To begin with, the essential fatty acids and minerals found within the quinoa seed work together to protect the heart and circulatory system. By helping relax the blood vessels, quinoa seeds lower blood pressure and bad cholesterol levels, helping to prevent strokes and heart attacks. This same mechanism also reduces the tension and constriction that bring about major migraine headaches. The iron and essential fatty acid content of quinoa seeds can also help assure expectant mothers of their child’s proper nutrition and development in the womb. Children suffering from asthma can find relief from their symptoms, thanks to quinoa’s significant quantities of magnesium and vitamin B. The high protein and polyunsaturated fat content of quinoa also prevents the development of both nuclear and corticular cataracts. Quinoa is also one of the rare foods that are completely gluten-free, thus being completely safe for consumption of people who are gluten-intolerant or are suffering from celiac disease.

Quinoa is also an infinitely versatile food item. It has a slightly nutty flavor, and can be served dry and raw or cooked into a wide variety of dishes. Dry quinoa can be mixed with dry fruits, berries and nuts to make an excellent breakfast. It can be eaten much like any cereal, but has the additional benefit of high protein content. The uncooked seeds may be sprinkled onto soups and stews to give them some extra flavor, texture, and nutrition. Quinoa can also be cooked by boiling it in water or in chicken or vegetable stock, similar to the preparation of rice dishes. Once cooked, it takes on a pleasant light, fluffy, and slightly crunchy texture, a perfect addition to any meal. Alternatively, quinoa seeds can be crushed and mixed with other ingredients to make gluten-free flour, perfect for any baking needs. Because of its high nutritional content and its infinite culinary possibilities, quinoa seeds are currently being considered by NASA as a possible long term renewable food source for astronauts going into space on multi-year missions. Quinoa may very well be one of the first crops man will harvest on another planet. It has truly lived up to its name “mother of all grains”.

Quinoa seeds are just one of the many healthy, all natural functional foods that make up Hidalgo Foods’ product lineup. In keeping with our mission of promoting healthier lifestyles through healthier diets, we make it a point to provide our customers with only the highest quality quinoa, grown organically to ensure maximum safety and potency.