Peru: The World’s Most Valuable Pantry
Peru is a country that has it all: mountains, rainforests, deserts, coastlines, and islands. It is home to more than 20,000 species of plants and 5,000 species of animals, many of which are endemic or unique to Peru. It also has a rich cultural and gastronomic diversity, with influences from indigenous, European, African, Asian, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Peru is truly the world’s most valuable pantry, offering a wealth of natural resources and culinary delights.
Why is Peru so biodiverse?
Located in the western part of South America, bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west, the Andes Mountains to the east, and the Amazon Basin to the north and east - Peru’s biodiversity is the result of its complex geography and history. These three regions create different climatic zones and habitats for a variety of plants and animals.
It is also part of the so-called “megadiverse” countries, a group of 17 countries that together harbour more than 70% of the world’s biodiversity. Peru ranks fourth in tropical forests, ninth in forest area, second in birds, third in amphibians and mammals, and fifth in reptiles.
Peru’s biodiversity is also influenced by its ancient history. Peru was the cradle of several pre-Columbian civilizations, such as the Chavín, Moche, Nazca, Wari, Chimu, and Inca. These cultures developed sophisticated agricultural systems and domesticated many crops and animals that are now part of the global food supply.
Superfoods from Peru
So when the time came to formulate our smoothie blends, we studied and picked five Peruvian superfoods, grown in pristine environments of the Amazon and the Andes, for their wholesome nutritional benefits. Grown in river valleys, mountain peaks and deep jungles, these superfoods when paired with a healthy diet and exercise can promote physical and mental wellbeing.
Maca
Maca is native to the Junin region of Peru, an area characterized by altitudes between 12,400 and 14,700 feet. Maca root is an adaptogen and works by balancing the endocrine system to relieve fatigue, increase energy, and balance moods. We use Gelatinised Maca in our smoothie blends to harness the nutrients in the most easy to digest form.
Lucuma
The Lucuma fruit is native to the coastal Andean valleys of Peru. Locals call it the "Gold of Incas" and celebrate it as the symbol of fertility. It is a significant source of antioxidants and carbohydrates along with 14 essential trace elements along with beta carotene, iron, zinc, vitamin B3, protein & calcium.
Cacao
Beloved across the globe, Cacao is native to the Amazon basin and Andean foothills of Peru. It is rich in essential minerals magnesium, iron, calcium, sodium, zinc, potassium, copper and phosphorus. It is also contains flavonoid antioxidants, plus it contains caffeine and theobromine.
Camu Camu
Camu Camu is the cherry-sized, purple-red fruit that is native to the Amazon lowland rainforests of Peru. The plant can survive underwater for up to 5 months and local people harvest Camu Camu by canoe. Camu Camu boast elevated levels of vitamin C and is packed full of bioactive compounds. Research indicates it is effective in fighting inflammation and reducing blood sugar and blood pressure.
Sacha Inchi
Sacha Inchi has been cultivated for centuries on the eastern slopes of the Andes. The plant thrives in high altitude rainforest climate and produces a green star-shaped fruit. The pods contain oval seeds that are similar to almonds in size and shape. Sacha inchi’s nickname is the Inca peanut or literally “the people’s seeds.”
Sacha inchi is a source of high protein and Omega 3 fatty acids. The seeds are an excellent source of tryptophan and the antioxidants vitamins A and E, calcium, zinc, potassium, and fibre.