Project Quinoa UPLB

A successful Quinoa field planting!🥳

The UPLB Project Quinoa Team had a remarkable two-day field preparation and planting in Lemery, Batangas last February 20 and 21, 2024, gearing up for the next exciting phase of quinoa farming. Led by Dr. Kim Nyka Perdiguerra, they collaborated closely with local farmers and turned a dusty field into a meticulously prepped quinoa field, ready for both direct seeding and transplanting of seedlings.

Fingers crossed for a bountiful harvest to come!🤞😊

The season of giving has officially begun here at the Institute of Crop Science! 🌟✨

Today, our amazing divisions treated students and staff to a year-end Food Festival filled with snacks, refreshments, and festive vibes.

Cheers to good times and Happy Holidays, everyone! 🎄🎁

Earlier at ICROPS, Project Quinoa participated in the Open House hosted by the Institute of Crop Science.

Thank you for all the good feedback on trying quinoa! Nawa’y nabusog po ang lahat sa mga free food at pa-sharon. 😊🍃

Wala pang Major? na! 💚

Pagbati sa mga Bagong Iskolar ng Bayan!

ICropS is inviting all BS Agriculture, BS Food Technology and BS Agricultural Biotechnology Freshmen to its Open House on 8 September 2023 (9-12 NN) at NB Mendiola Hall.

We have prepared interactive activities with prizes, free food from our own products and some to take home with you.

We are excited to welcome you all at ICropS.

See poster for details.

The dedicated team of Project Quinoa, funded by DA-BAR and spearheaded by Dr. Kim Nyka Perdiguerra, along with our esteemed project researchers, recently took part in the 27th Scientific Conference hosted by the Federation of Plant Science Association of the Philippines. This event unfolded in the captivating setting of Puerto Princesa, Palawan last August 28th to September 1st. The team delivered both an engaging oral presentation and an informative poster session during this remarkable event. 🌱📊

In addition, we conducted a valuable feedback survey to foster awareness and assess the conference participants' perceptions of quinoa consumption. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all those who took part in this survey. Together, let's continue to champion and promote healthy eating habits! 📝🍽️

Some Quinoa Fun Facts to start the week!

Last Friday was a great day for Project Quinoa, led by Dr. Kim Nyka Perdiguerra and her team, as they conducted a Focus Group Discussion with the farmers of Carranglan, Nueva Ecija.

The event was a huge success, providing the farmers with technical knowledge about the benefits of quinoa and its production. The main aim of the FGD was to discuss possible partnerships for ongoing research regarding the suitability and marketability of quinoa in the Philippines, and it was exciting to see everyone engaging in fruitful discussions.

Special thanks to Mr. Joemar Nantes and Ms. Rosanna Paragisan from the municipal agriculture office who were present and supported the preparation of the event. Also, a special shoutout to Mr. Benjamin Dandin, the lead farmer cooperator on the site, who immensely helped the team throughout the day.

Did you know that quinoa is a nutritional powerhouse compared to white rice? Here are some key differences:

• One cup of cooked quinoa contains approximately twice the amount of protein and fiber compared to white rice.
• Quinoa is also higher in Calcium, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium, and Zinc, which are all essential for maintaining healthy bones, muscles, and overall bodily functions.
• Additionally, quinoa is lower in carbohydrates than rice, making it a great option for those watching their carb intake.

Try swapping it in for rice in your favorite recipes or experiment with new quinoa-based dishes to enjoy its many health benefits!

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Source:
United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). (2023). FoodData Central. Usda.gov. Accessed at https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html #/food-details/168917/nutrientspo

Experience the power of a superfood!
This incredible grain-like food is a complete protein making it one of the best plant-based protein sources out there, with a protein level higher than most cereals and comparable to milk. Quinoa contains all nine essential amino acids which are essential for building and repairing tissue in the body such as muscles, organs, and skin. Quinoa is a fantastic option for people trying to lower their cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar because it is also low in carbohydrates. With a low glycemic index (GI) and rich in antioxidants, consumption of quinoa helps prevent spikes in blood sugar and insulin levels and protects against inflammation and oxidative damage. Plus, the high fiber content promotes feelings of fullness, aiding in weight management. But that's not all - quinoa is also packed with essential minerals such as magnesium, iron, and potassium, which help regulate muscle and nerve function, carry oxygen to the body's cells, and maintain fluid and electrolyte balance, respectively. With all these incredible benefits, it's no wonder that eating quinoa regularly can help maintain good health, improve heart health, lower cholesterol levels, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

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References:

Bastidas, E. G., Roura, R., Rizzolo, D. A. D., Massanés, T., & Gomis, R. (2016). Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd), from nutritional value to potential health benefits: an integrative review. Journal of Nutrition & Food Sciences, 2016, vol. 6, num. 3.
Manoel Maradini-Filho, A., & Br, A. (2017). Quinoa: Nutritional Aspects. 2, 3.https://nutraceuticals.imedpub.com/quinoa-nutritional-aspects.pdf
Navruz-Varli, S., & Sanlier, N. (2016). Nutritional and health benefits of quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.). Journal of Cereal Science, 69, 371–376. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcs.2016.05.004