Kirkland Quinoa: Bolivian-Grown, Prewashed Superfood

The Kirkland Signature Organic Quinoa is a product of Peru and Bolivia, cultivated by small-holder farmers in the Andean Mountains. It is pre-washed and does not need to be rinsed before cooking. The quinoa is packaged in a resealable bag and is available in a 4.5-pound option.

The product is sourced from Bolivia and Peru

Quinoa is an ancient seed that is primarily grown in the mountains and highland plateaus of Peru and Bolivia. It was first domesticated about 5,000 years ago in the Andean region of South America, with Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador and Chile among the first countries to grow it.

Today, Costco sources its quinoa primarily from Bolivia and Peru. The product is cultivated by traditional smallholder farmers who are committed to sustainably growing organic quinoa using the same farming techniques their ancestors did generations ago.

In Bolivia, farmers grow their quinoa near the Bolivian salt flats. No other crop will grow there besides quinoa, because of the altitude, salty soil and lack of water. The planting has to be timed just right—a couple of weeks before the start of the rainy season, farmers dig holes about eight inches deep to reach the trapped moisture from the previous year's rains. They drop the annual quinoa seeds, hoping this is enough moisture for the baby plants to grow until the rains come. The same plot of land can only be used once every two years in this ancestral practice of desert farming.

Well over 1,000 farms support Costco's demand for quinoa. The Kirkland Signature Organic Quinoa is priced at $11.99 for a 4.5-lb bag.

It is cultivated by smallholder farmers

Quinoa has been cultivated by smallholder farmers in the Andean region of South America for thousands of years. In Peru and Bolivia, a smallholder farmer is defined as someone who operates on 10 acres or less. Family farms typically have plots ranging from 2 to 20 acres.

Smallholder farmers in the Andes traditionally harvest and clean their quinoa by hand before selling it for further cleaning and export. However, the rise in quinoa's popularity has led to an increase in demand and competition, causing fluctuations in the crop's price. While the surge in demand initially led to a rapid increase in quinoa prices, boosting the incomes of smallholder farmers, it also made quinoa unaffordable for many local consumers in Bolivia. As a result, local consumption in Bolivia decreased by nearly one-third.

The subsequent decline in quinoa prices due to increased global competition has negatively impacted the economic well-being of Bolivian smallholder farmers. To remain competitive, farmers expanded their production areas, leading to land overuse and a decline in soil quality.

Despite these challenges, quinoa remains a vital crop for smallholder farmers in Bolivia. Various initiatives, such as the World Food Programme's pilot project, aim to support local smallholder farmers by connecting them with stable markets and promoting sustainable practices. Additionally, Bolivian quinoa farmers have sought to differentiate their product by obtaining designations like "Quinoa Real," highlighting the unique qualities of Bolivian quinoa.

It is pre-washed and ready to cook

Preparing a meal can be a tedious task, especially when you have to wash and rinse the ingredients before cooking them. This is why the Kirkland Signature Organic Quinoa is a great option for those who want to save time and effort in the kitchen. The quinoa is pre-washed and ready to cook, eliminating the need for any tedious rinsing or straining.

The quinoa comes in a resealable bag, making it convenient to store and ensuring its freshness. To cook it, simply open the bag, pour out the desired amount of quinoa, and add double the amount of water. It's as easy as that! No need to worry about mushy quinoa as the Kirkland variety maintains its texture even when cooked.

The Kirkland Signature Organic Quinoa is sourced from smallholder farmers in the Andean Mountains of Bolivia and Peru. These farmers use traditional and sustainable farming techniques, growing the quinoa in the same way their ancestors did generations ago. This ancient seed has been a part of South American culture for thousands of years and is known as the "mother grain".

Not only is quinoa delicious and easy to prepare, but it's also packed with essential amino acids, vitamins, and antioxidants. It's a complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids, and is easily digestible, making it a nutritious option for everyone, including those with wheat allergies or sensitivities.

With its convenience, great taste, and nutritional benefits, the Kirkland Signature Organic Quinoa is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to streamline their meal prep and incorporate a healthy and sustainable food into their diet.

It is a good source of protein

Quinoa is a great source of protein. In fact, it is often referred to as a "complete protein", meaning it contains all nine of the essential amino acids required for human health. These amino acids are vital for supporting muscle development and immune activity, and they must come from food since our bodies cannot produce them.

Quinoa is a good plant-based source of protein, making it an excellent dietary choice for people following a vegetarian or vegan diet. It is also a good option for those with wheat allergies or gluten intolerance, including those with celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity.

A cup of cooked quinoa weighing 185 grams provides 8.14 grams of protein. This makes quinoa a good way to contribute to your daily protein intake, especially when combined with other protein-rich foods like beans, tofu, and vegetables.

Quinoa is also a versatile ingredient with a subtle nutty taste, making it easy to incorporate into your diet. It can be used in both sweet and savoury recipes, such as breakfast porridge, salads, burgers, and as a substitute for rice.

It is available in a 4.5-pound bag

The Kirkland Signature Organic Quinoa is available in a 4.5-pound bag, which is perfect for those who want to stock up on this healthy and versatile seed. This large bag offers a great value for money, as it is priced at $9.99 or $11.99, which is cheaper than some other brands of pre-washed quinoa and even unwashed quinoa from bulk bins. The resealable bag makes it convenient to store and ensures the product stays fresh.

The 4.5-pound bag is a great option for those who use quinoa regularly in their meals. Quinoa is a complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids, and is a good source of fibre, vitamins B and E, and important antioxidants. It is also gluten-free, making it suitable for those with wheat allergies or sensitivities.

The Kirkland Signature Organic Quinoa is sourced from smallholder farmers in the Andean Mountains of Peru and Bolivia, who use traditional and sustainable farming practices. This quinoa is pre-washed, saving time and effort in the cooking process. It can be easily incorporated into a variety of dishes, including salads, stir-fries, soups, and even desserts.

Overall, the 4.5-pound bag of Kirkland Signature Organic Quinoa offers convenience, value, and versatility, making it a great choice for individuals and families looking to include a nutritious and delicious seed in their meals.

Frequently asked questions