What's New in Rice Archive

Spotlight on Arkansas: Rice, Cuisine, Culture

In honor of September National Rice Month—come celebrate the rice harvest with us. Arkansas is the #1 rice producing state accounting for 49 percent of the rice grown in the United States. Long and medium grain rice is farmed in the eastern half of the state, stretching from the Louisiana to the Missouri borders.

Arkansas Rice Industry

Both are highly regarded by chefs and operators and are the most popular rice types used in foodservice, providing a wholesome balance to a wide variety of dishes.

With the growing interest in food origins, we introduce you to several Arkansas rice farming experts who take pride in being part of America's agricultural abundance.


		Robert Petter – Tollville, AR Petter Farms Four generations of the Petter family have farmed for nearly 100 years and grow 1,000+ acres of rice. "I love being a rice farmer. It's rewarding to know people have more confidence in home-grown agriculture, and choosing U.S.-grown rice is a great way to show support for farmers and our economy."


Jennifer James – Newport, AR H & J Land Company Creating the farm-to-table connection is essential for the James family, who grow 2,500 acres of long and medium grain rice. "It is very important for consumers to know how food reaches their table. We always enjoy inviting visitors to the farm to show them about rice farming, drawing a deeper connection to the source."


		Dow Brantley – England, AR Brantley Farming Company The Brantley family has been farming since the early 1900s, and three generations have farmed medium and long grain rice on 2,600 acres. "Consumers want to know if the foods they are eating are American grown, safe and affordable. It's our priority to provide high-quality rice that meets expectation in taste, presentation and value."


Steve Orlicek – Stuttgart, AR Orlicek Farms A third generation farmer, Steve carries on his family's tradition of utilizing Arkansas' rich land to sow a quality product, like his long and medium grain rice. "I am glad to see that people are interested to know where their food comes from. It is directly related to living a healthier lifestyle and rice is a central ingredient in this growing trend."


		Dr. Charles Wilson Arkansas State Rice Agronomist Dr. Wilson supports farmers' efforts to enhance sustainable rice production and to maintain water, air and soil environmental quality so Arkansas will remain a national rice leader. "Helping farmers produce the highest quality rice crop is my utmost priority. The health of our environment is central to producing the premium rice Arkansas is known for."

Read more about U.S. rice farmers.

Arkansas Rice Foodservice Suppliers:

Producers Rice Mill, Inc.
Riceland Foods, Inc.

Did You Know?

Arkansas rice is an essential ingredient in creating global cuisines—and sustaining the well-being of the state. Over a million acres of Arkansas land is dedicated to rice crops, and rice farming contributes more than $1 billion to the state's economy each year, accounts for more than 12,000 jobs, and is the state's top agricultural export.

See how these innovative Arkansas culinary professionals use rice:

Congratulations to the new Miss Arkansas 2011 Kristen Glover, daughter of Keith Glover, President of Producers Rice Mill, Inc. Kristen will represent the state in the upcoming 2012 Miss America pageant.

"I grew up in a home where my father worked in the rice industry and my mom knew how to incorporate rice into every meal. I recognize first-hand the long summer days and hard work it takes to produce rice that feeds the world. We take pride in the quality and nutrition of our rice!"

Rice Provides Nutritional Balance The new USDA MyPlate graphic highlights grains as an essential ingredient to creating well-balanced meals. Widely accepted by consumers and only 10 cents per serving, rice is a healthy and cost-effective grain partner on the plate. It also pairs well with other MyPlate foods such as beans, lean proteins, vegetables and fruits. Increased awareness and support of the U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans has also heightened customers' demands for brown rice. USA Rice proprietary foodservice research shows chefs are following this trend and have increased their use of whole grain brown rice by 35% since 2006. They cite the ingredient's importance in creating good-for-you dishes that are on-trend and profitable.
Consider featuring these whole grain rice recipes on your menu:

	Breakfast: Country Breakfast Cereal
	Appetizer/Starter: Seven-Rice Tabbouleh Salad with Green Lentils, Fava Beans and Tomatoes
	Lunch/Dinner: Chimichurri Rice Bowl

Go Gluten-Free For Celiac Awareness Month

More than 21 million Americans have celiac disease or are gluten intolerant. In fact, a study by Columbia University reported that 86% of celiac patients said difficulty in dining out had a negative impact on them. Chefs and operators can appeal to this growing population by providing a safe dining experience with gluten-free options that are flavorful and wholesome. As rice is naturally gluten-free, try these menu items:

K-12 Healthy Rice Bowls Contest Back Again!

Calling all kindergarten through 12^th grade school foodservice directors and menu planners. USA Rice is kicking off its annual "Healthy Rice Bowls Contest" in September. Rice bowls encourage healthier student eating habits, help schools meet the Healthier U.S. Schools Challenge recommendation for more whole grains on the menu and fit students' desires for authentic global flavors.

Entries will be accepted September 1^st–October 28^th, 2011. Winners will be promoted on this website, with an overall and first and second runners-up receiving prizes. Learn more and submit your entries here.