Protein and amino acid levels in quinoa plants and seeds grown in Ontario

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Quinoa is the only known plant that provides a complete plant protein source (higher than soybeans) and has a higher nutritional and antioxidant profile compared to traditional grains. Quinoa seeds have a greater, more complete nutritional profile than most cereals, with high levels of high quality protein, beneficial unsaturated fatty acids, vitamins and minerals (Matiacevich et al., 2006, Gonzalez et al., 2012). The seed proteins are rich in amino acids including lysine, threonine and methionine that are deficient in cereals (Stikic et al., 2012). They are also very nutrient dense; the ratio of nutrients (vitamins and minerals) present compared to the amount of energy (calories) provided is higher than that of common cereals (Ruales and Nair, 1993). Preliminary analyses on quinoa plants demonstrated a high level of protein and relative feed value (Katan Kitchens, data on file). The vast majority of quinoa in Canada is imported from Bolivia and Peru. Results from preliminary trials indicated that a viable production of quinoa is achievable in Ontario. The present research will evaluate the protein levels as well as the amino acid profile of Ontario grown quinoa to maximize quality for use in food product development. Production of Ontario Quinoa will improve Ontario Agriculture by adding a high-demand crop that boasts a higher nutritional profile when compared to other cereals and grains.