Organic basmati white rice, fondly known as the “Queen of fragrance,” is globally celebrated for its unique perfume, delicate texture, and delightful taste. It’s grown in the Himalayan region, where the unique combination of climate, water, and soil quality produces this superior grain.
Why Organic Basmati White Rice?
Organic basmati white rice is grown without harmful chemicals or pesticides. The result is a healthier and more nutritious grain, ideal for recipes like biryani, pilau, kabuli rice, kheer, paella, fried rice, and crispy rice.
Benefits of Organic Basmati White Rice
- No chemicals or pesticides used in farming
- High nutritional value
- Aromatic and delicious
- Versatile use in various dishes
“Organic basmati white rice is healthier, tastier, and environmentally friendly.”
Organic Basmati Brown Rice: The Nutritious Choice
Like its white counterpart, organic basmati brown rice is grown and processed without harmful chemicals or pesticides. Its brown colour comes from the bran layer, which remains intact and provides additional nutrition.
Apart from the extra fibre, organic basmati brown rice also contains more folate, riboflavin (B2), potassium, and calcium. Plus, it promotes a low-glycemic diet. It’s perfect for rice pilaf, biryani, pilau, kabuli rice, fried rice, brown rice salad, and crispy rice.
Benefits of Organic Basmati Brown Rice
- Extra nutritious value
- Lower glycemic index
- No chemicals or pesticides used in farming
“Organic basmati brown rice is a highly nutritious choice for health-conscious consumers.”
Arsenic in Rice: The Concern and Solutions
There has been much discussion about the levels of naturally occurring, low levels of arsenic in rice. Arsenic is a naturally occurring metalloid in the soil, and its presence in some areas has been amplified due to human activities, such as using arsenic-based pesticides in conventional agriculture.
How Does Arsenic Get into Rice?
Due to chemical similarities, arsenic can replace silicon, which the rice plant uses to strengthen its stems and husks. This can lead to arsenic being absorbed by the rice. As the plant matures, the arsenic can be integrated into the grains.
Consumer Reports on Arsenic in Rice
In 2012, Consumer Reports published that rice does contain low, but measurable, levels of arsenic. Their 2014 report expanded this analysis, including data from 2012 tests, FDA data, and hundreds of samples of various rice and rice-containing foods.
The report showed that the highest levels of inorganic arsenic were in rice labelled as being from the U.S. (general), Arkansas, Louisiana, or Texas. The lowest levels of inorganic arsenic were found in basmati rice from India, Pakistan, and California and sushi rice from the United States.
Rice: Healthy or Not?
Despite the presence of arsenic, it’s important to view rice intake holistically. Many studies have shown health benefits from consuming whole grains like brown rice, and organisations like the American Heart Association recommend increasing the consumption of these whole grains for better health.
Safety Regulations
The Codex Alimentarius, a commission established by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and World Health Organization (WHO), has adopted a standard for arsenic limits in white rice.
Why Organic is Important
While there is no difference in the amount of arsenic absorbed by organic versus conventional rice, organic production systems offer many advantages. For example, organic rice paddies use eco-friendly soil amendments like compost, which improve soil health and decrease nutrient run-off.
The organic industry supports research on methods for decreasing levels of arsenic in organic rice. These projects aim to develop improved rice varieties and rice-growing protocols to ensure consistently low levels of arsenic in organic rice.
“Choosing organic basmati white rice or organic basmati brown rice is a step towards healthier and more sustainable living.”
In conclusion, whether you choose organic basmati white rice or organic basmati brown rice, you make a healthier, sustainable, and delicious choice. These grains are grown carefully, providing optimal nutrition and flavour while preserving the environment. So, next time you plan your meal, consider the organic basmati rice option for a royal, aromatic, and nutritious meal.