Canihua Wholesale

What is Canihua?

Canihua, also known as "baby quinoa," is a resilient ancient grain native to the high-altitude regions of Peru and Bolivia. Similar in nutritional value to quinoa but smaller in size and naturally saponin-free, canihua is celebrated for its earthy, nutty flavor and dense nutrient profile. As global interest in gluten-free and heritage grains grows, canihua is emerging as a valuable ingredient in health foods, snacks, cereals, and specialty baked goods. Closely related to quinoa, canihua is a high-protein Andean grain typically marketed with amaranth, buckwheat, or teff in ancient grain blends.

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Types, Varieties & Forms of Canihua

Canihua is processed into multiple forms, offering flexibility across culinary and industrial uses:

• Whole Canihua Seeds: Tiny, dark seeds used similarly to quinoa in warm salads, bowls, soups, and side dishes.
• Canihua Flour: A finely ground, gluten-free flour used in bread, pastry, and pancake formulations.
• Puffed Canihua: Air-puffed grains commonly found in cereals, granola bars, and as a topping for desserts.
• Canihuaco: A traditional toasted canihua flour often mixed into water, milk, or smoothies for a nutritious Andean-style drink or porridge.

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Harvest Season of Canihua

Canihua is typically harvested in the cooler months between April and June in the Southern Hemisphere. It is particularly well-suited to high-altitude cultivation, thriving in nutrient-poor soils and surviving frost and drought. After harvest, the grain is cleaned and sorted for local consumption or prepared for export to meet international demand.

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Producing Countries

Canihua is primarily cultivated in the Andean highlands, where traditional farming communities have grown and consumed it for centuries. Modern demand is now helping this ancient grain enter global markets.

• Peru: In 2021, Peru's production of cañihua reached approximately 5,188 tons, as reported by Agraria.pe. ‍
• Bolivia: The Department of La Paz leads domestic production, contributing approximately 458 metric tons annually, about 60% of the national total.

These countries provide ideal highland conditions for canihua cultivation and continue to expand production to meet both local food security goals and international health food trends.

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Trends & History

Canihua has long been a staple in Andean diets and holds cultural significance as a resilient and nourishing crop. As consumer interest in ancient grains and plant-based nutrition rises, canihua is increasingly used in gluten-free baking, functional beverages, and high-protein snacks. Its naturally saponin-free seeds require less post-harvest processing than quinoa, making it attractive for sustainable food supply chains. With its combination of taste, nutrition, and resilience, canihua is becoming a standout grain in the specialty foods market.

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Canihua Wholesale

Looking to source high-quality canihua? Nutrada provides direct access to certified suppliers from Peru and Bolivia who specialize in whole seeds, flour, and puffed forms. Whether you're developing clean-label foods, gluten-free products, or functional snacks, Nutrada helps you connect with trusted canihua producers.

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Bulk Canihua

Canihua is typically supplied in 10–25 kg sacks or foodservice packaging, available as whole seeds or milled flour. Bulk options are ideal for manufacturers, bakeries, and health food brands looking to expand their product line with a premium ancient grain.

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Private Label Canihua

Want to launch your own canihua-based products? Nutrada connects you with suppliers offering private label capabilities, including packaging, labeling, and regulatory support. Ideal for brands looking to develop gluten-free flours, ready-to-eat cereals, or wellness-focused snacks.

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Organic Canihua Demand

Organic canihua is increasingly sought after in the global health food market due to its ancient grain status and clean nutritional profile. Grown at high altitudes in Peru and Bolivia using traditional and sustainable methods, organic canihua appeals to buyers prioritizing soil health, biodiversity, and fair trade sourcing. Its natural resilience makes it well-suited for low-input, organic farming systems. Nutrada connects buyers with certified organic canihua suppliers offering whole seeds, flour, and puffed formats.

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Find Canihua Suppliers on Nutrada

Nutrada’s platform makes it easy to find verified canihua suppliers from the heart of the Andes. Compare product specifications, certifications, and pricing, then start sourcing with confidence. Create your free Nutrada account today and explore a growing market of premium canihua suppliers who prioritize traceability, quality, and sustainability.

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