Cereals; quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa)

HS code 100850 covers the classification of quinoa, a highly nutritious cereal grain that has gained significant global popularity in recent years. Quinoa is cultivated primarily 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 gluten-free grain, quinoa has become increasingly sought after worldwide, not only for its culinary applications but also for its health benefits and sustainability as a crop.

Quinoa is typically grown at high altitudes, often in harsh, arid environments. The production process involves sowing the quinoa seeds, which are small and round, and allowing them to grow and mature over a period of several months. Once the quinoa plants have reached maturity, the grains are harvested, typically by hand or with the use of specialized machinery. After harvesting, the quinoa grains undergo a cleaning and processing stage to remove the saponins, a naturally occurring compound that can give the grain a bitter taste if not properly removed.

The primary inputs required for the production of quinoa include arable land, water, and labor. Quinoa is well-suited to grow in high-altitude, cool, and dry climates, making the Andean region an ideal location for its cultivation. Additionally, specialized agricultural equipment, such as planting and harvesting machinery, may be used to improve efficiency and productivity. The processing of quinoa also requires equipment for cleaning, drying, and packaging the grains.

The primary output of HS code 100850 is quinoa, which can be consumed directly as a food grain or used as an ingredient in a variety of food products, such as cereals, breads, and snacks. Quinoa is also used as animal feed, particularly for livestock in the Andean region. Additionally, quinoa may be used as an input for the production of 190410 Cereal foods, swollen or roasted, 190420 Cereal grains otherwise prepared, and 210690 Food preparations not elsewhere specified.