Slow Food's "Ark of Taste" catalogue lists indigenous foods that are at risk of disappearing, including 33 from Ecuador and works with leading chefs in the country, including Acuña, to use them.

Ecuador's diverse climate means there's always something amazing happening, no matter the time of year. Just be prepared for a little altitude adjustment if you're planning on visiting the Andes!

NutraCea, the stabilised rice bran research and technology, has expanded its joint venture with Pronaca, the largest commercial food producer in the country of Ecuador.