Field Trial Evaluation of Two Chenopodium quinoa Genotypes Grown Under Rain-Fed Conditions in a Typical Mediterranean Environment in South Italy

Chenopodium quinoa Willd. or 'quinoa' is a plant having many uses as a food. Importantly, it offers an alternative to normal cereals in coeliac diets because its seeds are gluten-free. For this reason, it is worthwhile to determine the properties of quinoa and to evaluate the suitability of this crop for the south of Italy. At the CNR-ISAFoM's experimental station in Vitulazio (CE), a 2-year (2006-2007) field trial under rain-fed conditions was carried out to compare the two quinoa genotypes: KVLQ520Y (KV) and Regalona Baer (RB). Comparison was also made between two sowing dates for KV. The results showed that April was the best sowing time for quinoa in our typical Mediterranean region. Of the two genotypes, RB recorded better growth and productivity, apparently being more tolerant to abiotic stress (high temperatures associated with water stress). Chemical analyses reveal the potential of quinoa seed as a valuable ingredient in the preparation of cereal foods having improved nutritional characteristics. © 2010 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.