What is the botanical identity of quinoa?

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) is a cereal classified under HS code 100850 and is a broadleaf non‑legume grown for its grain.

How does the protein quality of quinoa compare to other grains?

Quinoa’s protein content is about 13.8 % dry weight and is considered well‑balanced, with higher lysine than wheat and comparable to casein, making its protein quality superior to many common cereal grains.

What are recommended storage conditions for quinoa grain?

Quinoa should be stored in a cool, dry environment, protected from moisture and pests, to preserve its nutritional quality and prevent spoilage.

Quinoa

Quinoa is a pseudo‑cereal harvested from the plant Chenopodium quinoa. It is consumed as a dried grain and serves as a primary agricultural product.

Prices, specifications and international trade for quinoa under HS 100850.

Quinoa Price

$2,353USD/t

Published reference · Jul 1, 2026

Quinoa Historical Unit Values

Quinoa is quoted in USD/t at PER. Historical customs values may differ from the headline reference.

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Quinoa Exports and Imports

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Bolivia led reported quinoa exports in 2025, at $93.5M.

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Quinoa Facts and HS Code

Quinoa belongs to other cereals within grains, oilseeds, oils and feed. Its customs classification covers HS 100850.

Quinoa HS Code

Scientific name	Chenopodium quinoa
Product type	Raw
Form	Dried
Position in the chain	Primary
Category	Other cereals — Grains, oilseeds, oils and feed
HS codes	100850
Quoted in	USD/t
Reference location	PER

Production & Handling

Processing steps for quinoa include Cleaning, Drying, Sorting.

Production and Storage

Processing steps	Cleaning Drying Sorting Packaging

Uses & Risks

Quinoa is used in Gluten‑free grain replacement, Quinoa flour for bakery and confectionery, and Animal feed and forage.

End Uses

Gluten‑free grain replacement
Used as a whole grain in salads, bowls and ready‑to‑eat meals for health‑focused food products.
Quinoa flour for bakery and confectionery
Milled grain provides protein‑rich flour for gluten‑free breads, muffins, cookies and crackers.
Animal feed and forage
Whole plant and grain residues are incorporated into feed rations for cattle, sheep, pigs and poultry.

Uses and Related Commodities

Downstream industries	Food manufacturing, Animal feed production, Personal care and cosmetics
Standards	codex CXS 333-2019 — Standard for Quinoa
Leading origins	Bhutan, Bolivia, Ecuador, Peru

Sourcing risks

Risk	Category	Severity	Mitigation
Self‑heating risk LogisticsHigh Respiration of high‑fat quinoa seeds at high moisture and temperature can cause internal heating, creating hot spots and safety hazards.	Logistics	High	Maintain low temperature and moisture levels, and employ bulk storage with temperature monitoring.
Insect infestation PestHigh Elevated moisture and temperature in storage promote insect development, leading to quality loss and marketability reduction.	Pest	High	Use airtight, controlled‑atmosphere packaging and regular monitoring to prevent insect entry.
Moisture instability LogisticsMedium Air humidity directly influences seed moisture; combined with heat it accelerates respiration and quality degradation.	Logistics	Medium	Control ambient humidity and store in moisture‑proof containers with desiccants if needed.

Quinoa Questions

What is the botanical identity of quinoa?: Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) is a cereal classified under HS code 100850 and is a broadleaf non‑legume grown for its grain.
How does the protein quality of quinoa compare to other grains?: Quinoa’s protein content is about 13.8 % dry weight and is considered well‑balanced, with higher lysine than wheat and comparable to casein, making its protein quality superior to many common cereal grains.
What are recommended storage conditions for quinoa grain?: Quinoa should be stored in a cool, dry environment, protected from moisture and pests, to preserve its nutritional quality and prevent spoilage.