Clean eating is becoming a way of life for people all around the world and is the term used to describe eating foods that are natural and free of chemicals. Many clean eating recipes that you’ll find online and in cookbooks use organic quinoa as an ingredient.

Because quinoa is only just now becoming a mainstream food around the world, many people aren’t sure just what the phrase “organic quinoa” means. For starters, quinoa is a seed that comes from a plant native to South America. Rich in amino acids, protein and fibre, quinoa can be prepared similarly to whole grains and can also be used as a substitute for white rice.

“Organic” quinoa refers to quinoa that has been grown without the use of pesticides or synthetic fertilizers. The term organic can be confusing because there are no laws that dictate the use of the word. Instead, organizations offer organic certifications to products based on their own criteria.

More and more people are turning toward organic foods as a way to lead more natural, healthier lives. Some studies have found that pesticides and other chemicals that foods become exposed to can accumulate in the body and lead to health problems later in life. By choosing organic foods, people hope to decrease their likelihood of developing these illnesses and diseases.

The good news is that quinoa typically is organic. Most of the quinoa that you’ll find in stores is grown wild without any types of pesticides or fertilizers. This is because the majority of quinoa comes from regions of South America where pesticides are not used. Still, if you’re trying to eat cleaner, you should carefully read the labels of quinoa to ensure what you’re purchasing is organic.