Rice is one of the most important commodities in the world and directly feeds more people than any other crop. Because of this, it is a staple food in many countries including India. However, what else is there to know about this amazing crop? You probably haven't given rice much thought. It's just a cooking staple with a permanent spot in your pantry, right? Wrong answer! See for yourself with these interesting rice facts!
1. Is your Basmati Rice from India?
Even though several countries produce basmati rice, no doubt India is the largest producer of Basmati Rice. The country accounts for more than 50% of its output in the global Basmati Rice market. Besides India, Pakistan, Indonesia and Nepal are also known to cultivate and plant Basmati.
2. Rice = Prosperity and Wealth!
Rice growing is seen as a spiritual act in many countries and cultures. For example, in India, many associate the growing and harvesting of rice with the God Lakshmi. God Lakshmi is associated with prosperity and wealth.
3. Rice variety – so much to choose from!
There are over 40,000 varieties of rice and the top three favourites are India Basmati, Thailand Fragrant and Italian Arborio.
4. Everyone love rice!
Rice has an incredibly long history (with documentation of people eating it as early as 3000 B.C.) = That’s more than 5000 years ago!
5. Eating rice can actually make you happier!
Of course, eating something as delicious and satisfying as rice can typically make you happy, but besides this, carbohydrates like rice trigger the production of serotonin in your brain. Serotonin is a hormone known to boost mood and help reduce your appetite. Plus, rice is easy to prepare, relatively cheap and nutritionally rewarding. Who wouldn’t be happy about that?