Peruvian Andean maize: General characteristics, nutritional properties, bioactive compounds, and culinary uses

Abstract

Ancient grains are considered to have been minimally changed by selective breeding, thus they are resistant to pests and environmental adversities and have stood out as a healthy food for consumption. This article aimed to review Peruvian Andean maize (PAM), which despite being used in local cuisine, little information has been found in literature about its characteristics and bioactive properties. The highest yielding varieties of PAM include Chullpi, Piscorunto, Sacsa, Giant Cuzco, and Purple, which differs from the commercial maize by their greater variety of color, size, and higher levels of protein, lipids, and bioactive compounds. The genetic characteristics of PAM associated with a geographical origin allow for the production of agricultural products with higher added value, without exhausting the existing plantations and maintaining the sustainability of the Andean region.

Keywords: All-natural maize; Bio-grain; Native cereal; Peruvian maize; Pigmented grain; Sustainable crop.