Andean Dream Story
Entrepreneur, Ingrid, founded Andean Dream in 2006. Her husband, Fernando, a 25-year career diplomat for Bolivia, was her inspiration. Fernando introduced her to the plight of the indigenous quinoa farmers in Bolivia that were living well below the poverty line.
After developing the first quinoa cookie in her home kitchen, Ingrid saw an opportunity to improve the lives of individuals in the poverty-stricken regions of Bolivia by creating the Andean Dream brand. She traveled to Bolivia and connected with a quinoa supplier who had obtained organic certification for 280 indigenous farming families. They became the dedicated supplier for Andean Dream. In addition to helping farmers, Ingrid saw an opportunity to improve the lives of single mothers and individuals with disabilities, by identifying a local manufacturer who employed them to make the Andean Dream quinoa products. The social impact that Andean Dream had in Bolivia with their products, gained them recognition, as well as an invitation for Ingrid to speak at the United Nations to share her story during the 2013 International Year of Quinoa Celebration.
When Andean Dream Quinoa Cookies were first introduced exclusively in Whole Foods Market in 2006, it was the beginning of a now 18-year endeavor that has continuously benefited the farmers and workers who are associated with the brand. Andean Dream’s goal in creating these value-added products was to play a part in improving the social economy in Bolivia and provide healthy options for consumers.
In 2011, businessman Klaus, joined the Andean Dream team as a partner and has been actively involved with Ingrid in running the day-to-day operations of the company. This has helped to grow the brand and develop new product innovations. Through its distributor partners, Andean Dream Quinoa products are now available in 27 countries.
Andean Dream donates its products to charities and events in the U.S. and in the summer of 2015, the company served as a “Champion” Sponsor of the Special Olympics World Games held in Los Angeles. A donation of 48,000 quinoa cookies were provided to the athletes participating in one of the world’s biggest international sporting events. Andean Dream continues to support many local and national charities.
Their line of Gluten/Allergen-Friendly products also provides food options for consumers with special dietary needs, vegans and those who are looking for high quality, nutritious products that are manufactured in a dedicated facility free from Gluten, Dairy, Eggs, Soy, Corn, and Nuts. All products are Non-GMO.
Andean Dream products can be found in all Whole Foods markets, as well as other Natural and Conventional food stores in the U.S and abroad. Their pasta may also be found on the menus of many popular restaurants throughout the US.