John Myers
Where does rice come from?
Rice is always associated with China. However, grain is not only found in the Far East.
- The price you bought probably came from Thailand, as Thailand is the world’s rice export champion. 90% of global production comes from Southeast Asia. This is because the warm, humid climate is ideal for rice growth.
- For many people in Southeast Asia, grain is the only source of income. In addition, large quantities, especially from China, are already being eaten by the local population. As a result, the annual consumption there per capita is around 100 kilograms of healthy grain rice.
- Rice actually has its origin in Asia. Studies in China found that the wild rice variety “Oryza rufipogon” was first domesticated there and was later used in other countries as well.
- This rice is now grown in over 100 countries. The rice plant is very resistant and can therefore grow in many areas without problems. It grows, among other things, on the floor of the Himalayan mountains, but also on coasts. Rice is only found in colder regions. As a result, you will no longer find rice plantations north of Italy.
