MIKUNA is the 2024 Finalist for UNFI 's Emerging Suppliers

Mikuna Named 2024 Finalist for UNFI ’s Emerging Suppliers Award

Being recognized by UNFI — the largest publicly traded wholesale distributor of health and specialty foods in North America — is a major milestone for any growing brand. This year, Mikuna was honored as a 2024 Finalist for UNFI Emerging Suppliers Award, a recognition that highlights our momentum, product integrity, and commitment to clean, regenerative nutrition.

This acknowledgement reflects not only the quality of Mikuna’s Chocho-based products, but also the dedication of our farmers, partners, and team who continue to push forward a vision of plant-based nutrition rooted in ancestral wisdom and sustainable agriculture.

🌿 Why This Recognition Matters

The Emerging Suppliers Award celebrates brands that demonstrate exceptional growth, innovation, and potential within the natural food ecosystem. Being named a finalist signals several important milestones for Mikuna:

1. Industry Validation

UNFI works with thousands of brands at every stage of growth. Being selected as a finalist confirms that Mikuna is a trusted, scalable partner with a unique offering in the wellness and plant-based space.

2. Alignment With Consumer Trends

Today’s consumers want:

• Clean, recognizable ingredients

• Minimally processed foods

• Sustainable sourcing

• Functional nutrition

• Plant-based options without compromises

Chocho fits squarely at the intersection of these trends, making Mikuna an ideal partner for retailers seeking innovative, responsible products.

3. Expanded Retail Opportunity

Recognition from UNFI can help open new doors for national and regional distribution, enabling more retailers — and more consumers — to experience Chocho.

4. Highlighting Regenerative Values

As a legume grown using low-input farming practices in the Andes, Chocho naturally supports soil health and regenerative agriculture. The award highlights Mikuna’s commitment to sourcing that empowers rural farming communities while protecting ecosystems.

💪 What Sets Mikuna Apart

Mikuna’s Chocho Superfood Protein is made from minimally processed, whole-food ingredients — not isolates or concentrates. This preserves the fiber, nutrients, and natural structure of the plant while maintaining purity and digestibility.

Retailers and consumers increasingly look for:

• No artificial additives

• No gums, fillers, or inflammatory ingredients

• Clean labels

• Sustainable supply chains

• Nutrient-dense, everyday functionality

Mikuna meets all of these expectations while introducing an ancient Andean superfood rarely seen in the U.S.

📊 A Step Forward for Regenerative Agriculture

This recognition is also a win for the Andean farmers and communities who cultivate Chocho across high-altitude regions using traditional, regenerative methods.

As we grow, so does the demand for:

• Fair-trade pricing

• Climate-resilient crops

• Regenerative farming practices

• Restorative soil health

Together, we’re building a supply chain that honors culture, tradition, and the future of sustainable food.

🔗 Internal Links

Include these naturally within the article:

• /blogs/journal/mikuna-cleanest-protein

• /blogs/journal/regenerative-protein-how-chocho-regenerates-soil-supports-farmers-and-protects-the-andes-ecosystem

• /blogs/journal/what-does-chocho-taste-like

• /blogs/journal/chocho-protein-for-athletes

• /blogs/recipes