Development of a Strategic RD&E plan for quinoa.

Quinoa is a gluten-free, high protein, low -allergenic, healthy pseudocereal.  Despite its ancient use as a food by South American indigenous people for thousands of years, it has only recently become popular in health-conscious diets in developed countries.

In this project we will develop a comprehensive, industry-endorsed, Strategic Plan for the quinoa industry in Australia, with the aim of growing the quinoa industry. Through interviews with growers, processors and consumers we will identify factors which have limited the quinoa industry, and enablers which can lead to expansion of the industry. We will assess available R&D both in Australia and overseas, and how the latest knowledge can be applied to improve the industry. The information gained at all levels will be synthesised into an implementation action plan with a series of recommendations to grow the quinoa industry in Australia, enhance its reputation and raise its profile as a new, nutritious, low-allergenic, profitable mainstream crop.