1. Rice is an important crop for the global economy. It is the second most produced grain after maize.
2. Rice is harvested from the long grass-like stalk of the Oryza sativa plant.
3. Rice is grown in every continent except Antarctica.
4. White rice is just brown rice that has been polished to remove its outer bran layer.
5. Rice is widely used in beauty products such as face masks, exfoliators, and hair treatments.
6. Rice is widely consumed as a staple food by over half of the world’s total population, particularly in Asia.
7. There are over 120,000 varieties of rice, each with a unique fragrance, taste, and nutritional value.
8. Rice is a great source of carbohydrates, an essential macronutrient which plays a vital role in providing energy to our bodies.
9. India is the largest producer and exporter of basmati rice in the world.
10. Rice is cultivated in hot and humid climates where there is enough supply of water.
11. Uncooked white rice remains safe for human consumption for up to 10 – 30 years. However, uncooked brown rice has a shelf life of 3-6 months after which the brown coating becomes oxidized.
12. In some cultures, rice is considered a symbol of fertility and prosperity.
13. In Japan, rice is considered a sacred crop and is widely used in weddings.
14. In Thailand, rice is used in many Buddhist rituals and is offered as a gift to monks and other spiritual figures.
    “A woman or man who is not afraid of making their hands dirty, will make clean money!”

A successful Rice Farmer at Reyna Farms, Arusha, Tanzania.