Roland® Black Quinoa. Pre-washed. Non GMO project verified. nongmoproject.org. Gluten-free whole grain. 100% whole grain 45 g or more per serving. wholegrainscouncil.org. Known as the "mother grain", quinoa (keen-wah), was a staple of the ancient Incas and is still a major food source for the Quechua Indians of the Andean region of South America. A good source of protein and iron, it is also one of the unique whole grain foods that contains all eight essential amino acids, supporting a healthy lifestyle. Known as the "mother grain", quinoa (keen-wah), was a staple of the ancient Incas and is still a major food source for the Quechua Indians of the Andean region of South America. Quinoa has higher protein content than any other grain. It also contains all eight essential amino acids, making it a complete protein- something usually only found in meat, dairy, and eggs. As quinoa is gluten-free, it is an excellent alternative for people who are allergic to wheat. Roland® Quinoa has been pre-washed in order to remove the naturally-occurring bitter coating known as saponin. Traditionally, saponin is removed with mechanical polishing, but this process causes the Quinoa to lose its germ kernel and much of its dietary fiber. The Roland Foods method of pre-washing is strong enough to remove the saponin yet leave the germ kernel and dietary fiber intact, making it a whole grain food. Roland® Quinoa is also available in red, white, and tri-color. Visit us at www.rolandfood.com ©2014 American Roland Food Corp.