Farming is a worthy and lucrative enterprise. Different crops are propagated in farms and fetch different prices in the market. Notably, Bolivia has quinoa to pride itself in. The crop which was a staple to the Bolivian people has become a world commodity that has huge demand. It is seen in supermarkets and hotels as a commodity or ingredient of essence. Unlike other crops like soya, quinoa has proven to be environmental friendly, which is a proponent of a flourishing economy. Despite the negative coverage quinoa receives from some sections of the press, the domestic market and quinoa-production enjoys positive facets as a result of increased exports of the crop.
Significantly, the producer is the primary provider of a product. A huge demand has resulted due to the popularity of the crop (Saunders 1). More land is needed to increase quinoa’s production. This means more economic power to producers should be instituted. Importantly, quinoa a staple food to the Bolivians is easily produced since it is a basic commodity to them. Production is not strained. The crop grows well in the country with the common knowledge that Bolivians have concerning its growth. Therefore, the markets are sure of adequate quinoa supply. With increased exports producers will need more land and developed means of production to maximize their productivity.
The consumer base has largely grown depriving Bolivians their staple food. Fortunately, the increased exports rake in high profits that the Bolivians are now economically empowered (Blythman 1). They are able to import foreign foods that are cheaper and healthier. Consumers have popularized quinoa which has increased the demand that the press sees as a setback to the Bolivian people. The truth is that Bolivians have more income that allows them to produce more and purchase foreign products that are beneficial to them as earlier said.
Lastly, the total surplus can be used for the country’s food security. Demand sometimes cannot be met by the existent supply. As such, it is important that Bolivians store quinoa well for posterity and the assurance of continued lucrative business. Evidently, Bolivians have more to gain than to lose from quinoa.
- Blythman, Joanna. “Can vegans stomach the unpalatable truth about quinoa?” The Guardian 16 January 2013: 1-2.
- Saunders, Doug. “Killer quinoa? Time to debunk these urban food myths.” The Globe and Mail 19 January 2013: 1-2.
