Moisture, protein and mineral content of ten varieties of chilean quinoa grown in different geographic zones

Abstract

The intake of quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd) has increased worldwide. Its revival has renewed interest in its composition and nutritional value. The aim of this study was to determine the contents of moisture, ash, protein, and some minerals (Fe, Zn and Cu) of ten varieties of Chilean quinoa grown in various geographical zones, using validated analytical methods under rule ISO/IEC 17025:2017. Grains grown in Vallenar, Los Tilos, Hidango, and Santa Rosa were analyzed in triplicates, using previously validated analytical methodologies and certified reference materials. The normalized methods used were: Moisture; ash; protein; mineral, under the ISO/IEC 17025:2017 norm. Data were analyzed using ANOVA to compare varieties and growth zones. The analyzed quinoa grains contain a mean of 16.6 g proteins/100 g (range 14.4-17.5), 8.97 mg iron/100 g (range 7.71-10.76), 3.38 mg zinc/100 g, and 0.83 mg copper/100 g (range 0.60-1.10). The varieties grown in Vallenar, Los Tilos and Hidango showed higher protein content compared to Santa Rosa (p<0.05). All varieties exhibit considerable microminerals content, such as copper, zinc, and iron. These results provide relevant information about the nutritional value of Chilean quinoa and updated reliable data for Food Composition Tables.