Our Story

Hi there! We're Ingrid and Klaus, co-owners of Andean Dream.

Founded in 2006, Andean Dream was discovered by Los Angeles-based entrepreneur Ingrid Hirstin-Lazcano to create plant-based food options for those with special dietary needs and restrictions.

After developing the first iteration of our now-famous quinoa cookie in her very own kitchen, Ingrid traveled to Bolivia in June 2006 and connected with a quinoa supplier, who had obtained organic certification for 280 indigenous farming families, and would ultimately supply the future line of Andean Dream products. In addition to supporting the indigenous farmers through this partnership, Ingrid also saw an opportunity to improve the lives of single mothers and people with disabilities, and identified a local manufacturer who employs those individuals. This was just the beginning of a now 15-year endeavor that has continuously benefited these farmers and workers, who are deeply associated with our brand.

In 2011, New York-based entrepreneur Klaus Whitney joined the Andean Dream team, and has partnered with Ingrid in running the day-to-day operations of the company. This partnership has helped to grow the brand tremendously, and continues to inspire new product innovations.

Thank you for visiting us, and we look forward providing you with the best quinoa-based products that not only taste good, but make you feel good too. 

-- Ingrid & Klaus