What is Chocho
Chocho (pronounced ‘cho-cho’) is an ancient lupin that’s been cultivated by Indigenous farmers for thousands of years. It grows exclusively in the Andes Mountains at an elevation of 11,000-14,000 feet. Chocho is extremely nutrient-dense and packed with protein, fiber, iron, and calcium.
The coolest part? Chocho creates a cycle of regeneration. It thrives on rain water alone, nourishes the body, and pulls nitrogen deep into the soil as it grows, making the soil healthier and more fertile for future crops.
What are the Health Benefits of Chocho?
Chocho is a complete protein, providing all nine essential amino acids, ensuring optimal nutritional support.
At Mikuna, we know that many people experience digestive issues on their quest to increase protein levels, so we're excited to present products that are high in protein yet free of lectins.
Your body naturally produces nonessential amino acids, but essential amino acids must come from your diet. A complete protein source contains all nine essentials. Mikuna delivers them all in a single ingredient—Chocho.
Chocho, your versatile protein for every lifestyle—whether you're embracing plant-based, or a low-carb, high-fat approach.
Low glycemic index for sustained energy, our Pure flavor has no sweeteners, while Vanilla and Cacao use monk fruit, ensuring minimal impact on blood sugar levels. No spikes or crashes, just a smart choice for balanced energy.
What are the Environmental Benefits of Chocho?
Cultivated by Andean indigenous communities, Chocho exemplifies the best of sustainable farming. This super-plant nourishes soil health through nitrogen fixation, fostering biodiversity and maintaining agricultural balance.
Thriving even in harsh conditions, Chocho is solely watered with rainwater, emphasizing its resilience and sustainability.
Chocho enhances soil health by drawing nitrogen from the air, fostering natural fertilization, and resulting in nutrient-rich and biodiverse landscapes.
Chocho promotes crop diversity, contributing to varied agricultural ecosystems, creating healthier soils, and supporting sustainable farming practices. Additionally, Chocho acts as a cover crop, further enriching the soil and fostering a regenerative environment.
What Does Chocho Taste Like?
Mild and nutty, chocho's neutral flavor is similar to that of a sunflower seed. This makes it perfect for blending with other ingredients because it will enhance rather than dominate other flavors.
In addition to our Pure Chocho flavor, we also offer both Cacao and Vanilla flavors, each with only five ingredients total, and Chocho of course being the sole source of protein. Unlike many of the powders on the market, MIKUNA is not too strong or overly sweet, again making it ideal for mixing with other ingredients.
How Can Chocho Be Used?
Chocho adds dimension to any recipe: It melds into hot cereals, creates richness in smoothies and works beautifully as a partial, gluten-free flour replacement for baking anything from breads to cookies (for best results, we recommend replacing 30-40% of the flour in any recipe.) Chocho can also be sprinkled into soups, yogurt, sauces or salads. Since our Pure Chocho is simply a whole food that we mill into a powder, its taste is clean and light, and its versatility is endless.
Looking for a protein that's pure, powerful, and positively impacts your health and
the planet? Chocho is your answer — an ancient Incan superfood that goes beyond
protein, delivering a superior nutritional experience.
