High Antioxidant Riceberry Hits Store Shelves

The wholesome riceberry grain is rich in antioxidants such as beta-carotene, gama oryzanol, vitamin E, zinc and folic acid. (Dept. of Foreign Trade, Ministry of Commerce, Thailand) (CNW Group/North America Asean Consultants Inc.)

VANCOUVER, June 13, 2017 /CNW/ - Its purple-black coloured bran is packed with potent antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, like omega-3 fatty acids - nutrients that help lessen risks for diabetes, Alzheimer's, heart disease and cancer.  The high fibre and bran oil content aids in digestion. 

Riceberry: Thailand's popular non-GMO and gluten-free superfood is now available in British Columbia.  "You can purchase this Thai rice at PriceSmart Foods and select ethnic grocery stores," said John Chiang, President of Western Rice Mills, one of Western Canada's leading rice distributor.

Developed by Thailand's Kasetsart University researchers, riceberry is a cross between Jai Hom Nin (non-glutinous black rice) and the fragrant Khao Dawk Mali 105 (Thai Hom Mali or Jasmine rice).  The breed is a healthy, supple-textured, flavourful and aromatic grain - high in minerals, anthocyanin and lipid soluble antioxidants that also slow down the aging process.

Thailand has about 3,500 rice varieties. Rice is the essence of Thai life, a national staple, and the country's top agricultural export.  In 2016, Thailand supplied 23.7% of global rice exports, the world's second largest rice exporter in dollar value (US$ 4.4 billion), cited The World Factbook.  

Jasmine rice makes up a major share of Thailand's rice exports. The strain creation was one of over 4,500 Royal Development Projects initiated by the late King Bhumibol Adulyadei in 1951. His Majesty was instrumental in safeguarding his nation's food security and people's welfare through many rice and agricultural initiatives. 

Adherence to high international food safety and standards is critical to the nation's established food industry. Thailand's rice quality control management is ranked among the world's best.  The C.P. rice mill in Thailand currently houses the world's largest and most advanced rice processing technology. 

The Rice Pavilion at the 14^th THAIFEX - World of Food Asia held in Bangkok recently, showcased some of Thailand's premium grade and specialty rice including riceberry.  

THAIFEX is jointly organised by Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) with Thai Chamber of Commerce (TCC) and Koelnmesse Pte Ltd.  This five-day international trade exhibition featured 2,170 exhibitors and attracted over 55,000 industry professionals from 130 countries.

"…THAIFEX is a valuable platform to push Thailand to become the centre of food and food-related technology and services to the regional audience," said Malee Choklumlerd, Director General of DITP.

Learn more about Thai rice at Thai Rice for Life.

SOURCE North America Asean Consultants Inc.

For further information: Agnes Chung, 604-676-8878, [e-mail]