Rice

Product Information

Rice is one of the world's most important cereal crops and a major staple food for more than half of the global population. It is scientifically known as Oryza sativa and belongs to the grass family. Rice grows mainly in warm and humid climates and requires adequate water, although modern varieties can also be cultivated under water-efficient farming systems. Rice grains are available in numerous varieties, including long-grain, medium-grain, short-grain, basmati, jasmine, brown rice, and parboiled rice. It is primarily valued as a source of carbohydrates and energy and also provides varying amounts of protein, dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals depending on the type and processing method. Rice is widely used in cooked meals, biryani, pulao, fried rice, rice flour, noodles, breakfast cereals, snacks, desserts, and processed food products. Rice bran and rice bran oil are also important by-products of rice milling. Major rice-producing countries include China, India, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Thailand, Myanmar, Pakistan, the Philippines, and Japan. Important rice-importing countries include China, the Philippines, Indonesia, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Iran, Malaysia, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States. Rice has enormous agricultural, economic, food-security, and international trade importance. It is one of the world's most actively traded agricultural commodities, with demand driven by population growth, food consumption, and expanding global markets.