Highly nutritious quinoa successfully grown in Oman

Muscat: Researchers from the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries have successfully cultivated quinoa in the Wilayats of Barka, Sohar, and Al Kamil, the authority recently revealed.

The experiments focused on the crops' adaption to different environmental and climatic conditions, as well as the containment of amino acids and vitamins, a statement from the ministry revealed.
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"Research experiments in Barka, Sohar and Al Kamel indicate that the cultivation of the quinoa, which is characterised by adaptation to environmental and climatic conditions, and the containment of amino acids and vitamins, has been successful," the statement read.

Read more: Oman's climate perfect for quinoa farming, says expert

Originally from South America, quinoa’s high nutritious value has made it an overwhelmingly popular food the world over, sparking a craze for it among fitness enthusiasts and those seeking to lead a healthy lifestyle. Its high protein content means it is now found on several supermarket shelves in Oman and other Middle Eastern countries, and features prominently on restaurant menus.

Quinoa is among the highest proteinaceous grains currently available, with a protein content of 13.8 per cent, in comparison to corn (8.7per cent), millets (11.9 per cent) and rice (7.3 per cent). Only buckwheat (18.5 per cent) and barley (14.7 per cent) are found to have higher protein content among grains.