Bringing the Heritage of Red Quinoa from Indigenous Fields to Global Tables

The Ruby of Grains

Red quinoa, known as “the ruby of grains,” embodies the cultural essence and wisdom of Taiwan’s Indigenous peoples. In the South Link Area of Taitung, red quinoa, known as Djulis to the local Paiwan people, is more than just a staple food—it is a symbol of ancestral connection to the land. From December to April, during the harvest season, the vibrant red quinoa fields create a breathtaking sight, attracting tourists and photography enthusiasts alike.

In recent years, red quinoa has evolved beyond its traditional role as a ritual ornament and fermentation agent for Indigenous winemaking to become a globally recognized superfood. In response, the Taitung County Government has actively promoted the Taitung Red Quinoa Festival in Jinfeng Township, ensuring the revival and modernization of this traditional crop.

(Photo credit: @goodmore_drink)

(Photo credit: @goodmore_drink)

Ancestral Wisdom and 

Scientific Breakthroughs

Scientific research has revealed the remarkable nutritional value of red quinoa. It contains an average protein content of 17%, 50 times more calcium than rice, and 7 times more dietary fiber than sweet potatoes.

With global demand for red quinoa rising, the Taitung Agricultural Research and Extension Station successfully developed the “Djulis Taitung No.2 – Morning” variety in 2022, a high-yielding red quinoa with a growth cycle of just 90 days. With a harvest yield of 1,604 kg per hectare, this new variety offers uniform maturation and is suitable for mechanized harvesting, significantly reducing the labor burden for farmers while ensuring stable production.

(Photo credit: Taitung County Government)

Building a 

Red Quinoa Kingdom

To enhance market competitiveness, the Taitung County Government established the Taitung Red Quinoa Brand Alliance in 2021, bringing together 14 local farmers and quinoa brands under the principles of cooperation, coexistence, and shared success.

On the innovation front, the brand Djulis developed the Red Quinoa Grain Bar, which won the iTQi Two-Star Award and the Monde Selection Silver Award in Belgium. This success led to red quinoa products being served on international flights, significantly increasing the global visibility of Taitung red quinoa. Additionally, partnerships with Japanese companies have facilitated the expansion of red quinoa into Japan’s health food market, opening up new overseas sales channels.

(Photo credit: @skmgoodgoods)

Red Quinoa Goes Global

As the global demand for health foods continues to rise, Taitung red quinoa is transitioning from a traditional Indigenous crop to an internationally recognized superfood. The primary quinoa-growing regions in Taitung include Taimali, Jinfeng, Dawu, and Daren townships, where the stunning red quinoa fields attract visitors each year.

(Photo credit: @manran_vegan_artist)

The applications of red quinoa have also diversified, extending beyond traditional red quinoa rice, pastries, and wine to health supplements and skincare products. Studies have found that red quinoa is rich in antioxidant enzymes, which can prevent aging and reduce blood lipids, making it a highly sought-after ingredient in the health and wellness industry.

Through Indigenous wisdom and modern innovations, Taitung red quinoa is making its mark on the international stage, sharing its nutritional benefits and Taitung’s unique cultural heritage with the world.