3. Conclusion

The rationale for the reintroduction of quinoa into the diet is strongly related with the epidemiological situation prevailing, which is similar in many nations around the world: growing rates of child obesity, high prevalence of obesity during/after pregnancy in women, high rates of NCD such as cardiovascular, diabetes, cancer, which are associated with the major causes of death. From the nutritional point of view, quinoa represents an excellent source of nutrients and bioactive phytochemicals that contribute to a healthy diet and, on the other hand, supplies good quality protein to support children's healthy growth. The chemical composition of different cultivars is outstanding, although it may be affected by the environmental and climatic factors. Taking into account all its properties, quinoa is currently promoted as an extremely healthy food ("superfood"), the so-called food of the twenty-first century.
