Amaranth (Amaranthus caudatus) is a pseudo-cereal cultivated for thousands of years in South America. The Inkas considered the Amaranth in all their sacrat rituals since they considered as a excellent fruit from the “earth” mother. Seeds of Amaranth has been found in 4000 years old toms.

Due to its nutritional characteristics, it is predestinated for alternative food applications and health-oriented nutrition. The sweet, nutty flavor enriches the conventional segment of cereals. As the interest in specialty products for bread, muffins, pasta, muesli and snacks is growing, Amaranth is an attractive innovation suitable for all cooking and baking styles.

Nutritional value:
The recent attention given to Amaranth is due to it’s extraordinary nutritional value. The grain has a protein content of 12 to 17 percent and a high content of the essential amino acid lysine, which can hardly be found in other cereals. The grain has a high fibre content and is low in saturated fats. Recent studies found evidence for the reduction of the choloesterol level of animals fed with amaranth.

The recent attention given to Amaranth is due to it’s extraordinary nutritional value. The grain has a protein content of 12 to 17 percent and a high content of the essential amino acid lysine, which can hardly be found in other cereals. The grain has a high fibre content and is low in saturated fats. Recent studies found evidence for the reduction of the choloesterol level of animals fed with amaranth.

Amaranth is rich in iron and calcium as well as other vitamines and minerals. Amaranth has a high lysine, methionine and cysteine content. The essential amino acids in amaranth are in well-balanced relation to each other. This nutritional balancedness and richness is of central importance for vegetarians. A low content of sodium and the absence of saturated fats continue the list of positive attributes. Like Quinoa, Amaranth is suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Nutritional values Amaranth (per 100 g) :Energy Kcal 377,00 Moisture % 12,00 Protein g 13,50 Fat g 7,10 Carbohydrates g 64,50 Dietary fibers g 2,50 Ash g 2,40 Calcium mg 236,00 Phosphor mg 453,00 Iron mg 7,50 Thiamine mg 0,30 Riboflavine mg 0,01 Nacine mg 0,40 Ascorbine acid mg 1,30

Comparison between Amaranth and other known

Alimento : Amaranth, Spagetti, Milk, Egg, rice, oats