Quinoa breeding

General introduction

Quinoa is a protein-rich pseudo-cereal with a high potential for the agricultural sector and the food industry in Flanders. There is a high demand for varieties adapted to North-West European climatological and cultivation conditions. The goal of this breeding program is to develop sweet quinoa varieties (e.g. low content of bitter substances) with high and stable yield and improved resistance to downy mildew (Peronospora variabilis).

Research approach

Quinoa is bred through line selection. We are using freely available germplasm mostly from American origin as starting material for this program. Pair-crosses between plants with desirable traits are performed, followed by multiple generations of evaluation and selection. After six generations of selection for reduced bitterness, high grain yield, disease resistance, homogeneity and other relevant traits, candidate varieties will be ready for submission for official variety trials.

Relevance/Valorisation

Research results translate into the development of improved varieties adapted to cultivation in Flanders. This will benefit the agricultural sector, including the organic sector. The anticipated increase of the acreage of quinoa in Flanders will increase both crop diversification and local culture of plant-based protein crops.