For Bolivian Farmers, Quinoa Boom Is Both Boon and Bane

http://news.yahoo.com/bolivian-farmers-quinoa-boom-both-boon-bane-093806693.html

            This article discusses the recent rising popularity of quinoa and the unprecedented effects it is having in the countries where it is cultivated. Quinoa is a vegetable that has been traditionally consumed by indigenous populations in the Andes, as it is one of the few crops that are able to grow at the high altitude. Primarily grown in Bolivia, Peru, and Ecuador, quinoa has recently become popular due to its classification as a “superfood” and the fact that it is whole grain, gluten-free, and grown organically.

            The growing demand has had both positive and negative consequences for indigenous farmers. Prices for quinoa have risen and farmers are profiting. As the article states, 70% of the high school graduates in one of the main quinoa-producing regions of Bolivia can now afford to attend institutes of higher education; others are using their newfound economic success to improve their quality of life in ways like home renovations.

            However, there have been negative consequences as well. Violence and other conflicts over property rights high-quality quinoa-growing lands are spreading throughout the Andean highlands. Also, to accommodate the rising demand, farmers have altered their practices resulting in an upset of the balance in the ecosystem between llamas and the soil.

            After all the readings and class discussions we’ve had, I have to admit: this article worries me. This situation seems like another perfect storm for exploitation of indigenous farmers by large corporations and conflicts over traditional knowledge and practices. Basically every major issue we’ve touched on is present here: unclear land titles, overfarming of the land straining the environment and eroding the soil, etc. Furthermore, farmers are eating less quinoa because of economic pressure to sell it, leading to malnutrition. I think this situation has the potential to become a lot worse, especially if big corporations were to come in and try to profit from quinoa, possibly by patenting the seed. Fortunately, I think that that is less likely, since one of the big draws to quinoa for consumers is that it is organic and the indigenous farmers are directly profiting.

            One of the biggest things that we will need to wait and see is if the demand for quinoa continues to rise, fall, or plateau. Currently it seems to be the latest “trendy” health food, but as health consciousness continues to gain momentum, it is possible that quinoa could become more integrated into our diet and there is no “bust” as the article points out. If there is no bust, I think that the indigenous of Bolivia, Peru and Ecuador can benefit greatly from quinoa. If the land and farming practices were regulated, and if the farmers themselves continue to profit directly, then these communities would be able to develop in terms of education, health, and in other areas – and best of all, it would be on their own terms.