Bolivia (2022-): Quinoa Washer

DESCRIPTION

Quinoa is a staple product of many Latin American and African communities. It is high in protein. Quinoa is harvested from the quinoa stock and collected in bags. The pericarp around the seed is a few layers thick. The pericarp needs to be removed since it contains saponin, which is a toxic substance that breaks apart red blood cells. Saponin also can cause a sweet or bitter taste. Pericarp is removed by mechanical and/or washing methods. In several communities, the quinoa is washed by hand to remove the pericarp. It takes approximately one hour per half bucket. After washing, the quinoa needs to dry prior to being stored. A quinoa washer using water was developed that was able to wash several varieties of quinoa within 5-10 minutes. We currently have nearly 50 washers implemented in communities.

IMPLEMENTATION

We have implemented nearly 50 quinoa washers in communities surrounding La Paz, Bolivia. We have utilized focus groups for feedback. We also have returned to the communities on several occasions to assess how the washers are helping the community members. Currently, we are focusing on s simpler design using a drill.