Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Do I need to pre-wash Andean Pride Royal Quinoa?
A. You do not need to, however you may wish to, depending on your preparation preferences. Our quinoa is triple washed using a chemical-free process that removes the unwanted irritant saponin layer that can make quinoa bitter. It is entirely safe to skip the rinse step when preparing at home.
Q. Are the products “Certified Gluten-Free”?
A. Our Royal Quinoa based products are produced in completely gluten-free facilities to ensure no risk of cross contamination. This is done to protect those living with Celiac disease or other gluten sensitivity issues.
Q. Are the products available for wholesale purchase?
A. Yes, we do have wholesale capability. For more information, send us an email at info@andeanpride.com and we will answer any questions you may have.
Q. What steps have you taken to earn the Fair-Trade Certified status?
A. Our farmers are very important to us. Aside from guaranteeing a contractually bound fair market price with the highly democratic farmer’s coalition in the Altiplano, we maintain a close personal relationship with many individual members of the community and provide aid in legal support, rights, and activism. We love our farmers and their rich history.
Q. What specific types of sustainable, organic practices are used in your Royal Quinoa production?
A. This is a fascinating part of how things work in the Bolivian Andes. As stated, it is a very harsh environment with extreme altitude, temperature fluctuation, and very little rainfall. It is a place that absolutely requires harmony and respect as it is nearly inhospitable. Over thousands of years, the people who have been able to survive here have developed planting techniques that incorporate field rotation, use of regional plants interspersed throughout the crop fields and act as natural pest repellants, and llama herding to help clear unused plant matter and provide natural fertilization. When we say, “Uniquely Bolivian” on our products, we refer to this special set of circumstances that truly cannot be replicated anywhere else in the world.
Q. What is the biggest difference between Royal Quinoa and other types of quinoa I have tried?
A. The biggest difference you will note is in its size and texture when prepared. The Royal Quinoa has a larger size and a more spherical grain shape. It is considered to have the most elegant texture. It is also notable for the quality of the quinoa flour it produces which can make very even, dense products like our Andean Pride Royal Quinoa pastas. You can also turn it into flour at home for use in baking.
Q. How are your gluten-free pastas different than other similar products I have seen?
A. Great question. Firstly, our pastas use quinoa flour as the primary ingredient in our flour blend as opposed to the corn or rice flours many of our competitors use as a base to save on cost. Secondly, the texture of our gluten-free pastas is very consistent. They don’t get clumpy or break apart when boiled according to the recommended cook times.
Q. What is tarwi and why is it special?
A. Tarwi is something very specific to Andean culture and is now gaining more presence in the wider markets in Bolivia. It is in the Lupin family, and its beans have been grown through the Andean region for 1,500 years. It is cherished for its vegetable protein content and is excellent for people with certain specific diet restrictions. It does lend a slightly earthy characteristic to the pasta which makes it fun to play with in the kitchen. We know that you will love it as much as we do.
Q. Are your pastas vegan-friendly?
A. All of our products are excellent choices for individuals who practice a vegan lifestyle. No eggs, dairy or other animal products are used. Our pastas also don’t contain any salt, preservatives, or enriching ingredients. Simply organic, non-gluten flour and an all-natural binding agent – that’s it!