Quinoa

cpc code 01194 covers the production and trade of quinoa, a highly nutritious pseudocereal that has gained significant global popularity in recent years. Quinoa is primarily cultivated in the Andean region of South America, particularly in Peru, Bolivia, and Ecuador, where it has been a staple food for centuries. As a versatile and protein-rich grain, quinoa has become an important part of the global food supply, with its production and export playing a crucial role in the agricultural and trade sectors.

Quinoa production involves several key steps. The crop is typically grown in high-altitude regions with cool temperatures and low rainfall. Farmers prepare the land by plowing and harrowing, then sow the quinoa seeds. The plants are carefully tended, with weeding, irrigation, and pest management practices employed as needed. When the quinoa heads mature, the plants are harvested, often by hand. The harvested grains are then cleaned, dried, and processed for sale or further processing.

The main inputs required for quinoa production include arable land, water for irrigation, agricultural machinery and tools, and labor. Quinoa thrives in specific climatic conditions, so the availability of suitable growing regions is a critical input. Additionally, quinoa production relies on access to high-quality quinoa seeds, as well as fertilizers and pesticides to maintain soil fertility and control pests and diseases.

The primary output of the quinoa industry is the quinoa grain itself, which can be consumed directly or used as an ingredient in a wide range of food products. Quinoa is often used in cereals, breads, snacks, and other food items. The byproducts of quinoa processing, such as the plant's leaves and stems, may also have secondary uses, such as animal feed or biofuel production. Quinoa is often consumed or further processed under 01199 Grain and Oilseed Processing, 01231 Breakfast Cereal Manufacturing, and 01232 Flour Milling and Malt Manufacturing.