Quinola Mothergrain

Quinola Mothergrain founder, James Livingstone Wallace started his career in finance. After the financial crisis he wondered if he could be putting his time and energy to better use. Taking his children out of school, he set off travelling to find a product to start a Fairtrade business with.

It was in Peru that he discovered the nourishing benefits of quinoa. Packed with 23% of your recommended daily protein allowance per 100g, and all nine essential amino acids, quinoa is a NASA recognised superfood which helps to improve blood sugar levels and lower cholesterol.

But Quinola is more than just health food. The brand is on a mission to prove that businesses can look after customers, the environment, suppliers, partners and employees – and still make a profit – by engaging in a ‘Generous Revolution’.

It starts with being generous to people and the environment, because without either, Quinola wouldn’t exist. The 500 farmers in the Coopain Cabana Cooperative in Peru are at the heart of Quinola, and the grains have always been sourced at ethical prices under Fairtrade terms. It’s this support that has helped them to purchase 2 tractors and a truck to ease the strain of ploughing. To ensure the land is not damaged by their work, the farmers use many methods including crop rotation and mixed agriculture practices to improve natural soil fertility and reduce water waste. Quinola also encourages consumers to reduce their carbon footprint by eating quinoa as a meat substitute.

Quinola produces a range of quinoa-based products, including meals for kids and babies, quinoa flakes for making porridge, and quinoa cakes for healthy snacking.

Want to know more? Tune into our Brand Talks podcast with founder James Livingstone-Wallace here.