Brown Rice
Husked (brown) rice is the whole grain rice after the outer husk has been removed but before polishing. It is a primary raw commodity used directly in food preparation and animal feed.
Prices, specifications and international trade for brown rice under HS 100620.
Brown Rice Price
Published reference · Jul 1, 2026
Brown rice is quoted in USD/t at PAK. Historical customs values may differ from the headline reference.
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Pakistan led reported brown rice exports in 2025, at $167M.
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Brown rice grading factors include Whole grain content, Moisture content, and Purity.
Grading Factors
Quality assessment for brown rice considers Whole grain content, Moisture content, and Purity.
- Whole grain content
The percentage of whole versus broken kernels affects the visual appeal and cooking performance, with higher whole grain content generally commanding a premium.
- Moisture content
Moisture content must be within a safe range to prevent mold growth and maintain storage stability; too high moisture leads to spoilage, while too low can cause cracking.
- Purity
The presence of foreign material such as stones, chaff, or weed seeds affects purity and safety, and is a key quality parameter.
- Color and uniformity
The color and uniformity of the kernels indicate the degree of milling and the absence of discoloration, which influences consumer acceptance.
Common Defects
Recorded defects for brown rice include Broken kernels, Discolored kernels, and Foreign matter.
- Broken kernels
Kernels that are broken or chipped during husking reduce the yield of whole grains and affect cooking quality and appearance.
- Discolored kernels
Kernels that are discolored, often due to fungal growth or improper drying, can impart off-flavors and reduce the visual appeal of the cooked rice.
- Foreign matter
The presence of foreign material such as stones, chaff, or weed seeds can pose a choking hazard and reduce the purity of the lot.
- Insect infestation
Live insects or signs of insect damage indicate poor storage conditions and can lead to further infestation and quality loss.
Brown Rice Facts and HS Code
Brown rice belongs to rice within grains, oilseeds, oils and feed. Its customs classification covers HS 100620.
Brown Rice HS Code
| Also known as | hulled rice, cargo rice |
|---|---|
| Product type | Raw |
| Form | Dried |
| Position in the chain | Primary |
| Category | Rice — Grains, oilseeds, oils and feed |
| HS codes | 100620 |
| HS6 description | Cereals; husked (brown) rice |
| Quoted in | USD/t |
| Reference location | PAK |
Production & Handling
Brown rice storage guidance: Store brown rice in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated space, protected from moisture and pests. Because the bran contains oils, it is more prone to rancidity than white rice, so stable temperature and humidity are essential to preserve freshness.
Production and Storage
| Perishability | Low |
|---|---|
| Temperature regime | Ambient |
| Storage conditions | Store brown rice in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated space, protected from moisture and pests. Because the bran contains oils, it is more prone to rancidity than white rice, so stable temperature and humidity are essential to preserve freshness. |
| Production methods | Farmed |
| Processing steps |
|
Packaging
Typical brown rice packaging includes Woven polypropylene bags, Vacuum-sealed bags, and Bulk containers.
- Woven polypropylene bags
Woven polypropylene bags are common for bulk transport and retail packaging, providing durability and breathability while protecting the grain from moisture and pests.
- Vacuum-sealed bags
Vacuum-sealed bags extend shelf life by reducing oxygen exposure, which slows rancidity of the bran oils, and are used for premium retail packs.
- Bulk containers
Bulk containers such as flexitanks or bulk bags are used for large shipments to food processors, reducing packaging waste and handling costs.
Uses & Risks
Brown rice is used in Direct cooking, Milling to white rice, and Rice flour production.
End Uses
- Direct cooking
Brown rice is cooked and served as a whole grain side dish or main component in meals, valued for its nutty flavor and chewy texture.
- Milling to white rice
Brown rice is further milled to remove the bran and germ, producing white rice for a variety of culinary applications.
- Rice flour production
Brown rice is ground into flour for use in baking, as a gluten-free alternative, and as a thickener in sauces and soups.
- Processed food ingredient
Brown rice is used as an ingredient in breakfast cereals, snacks, and other processed foods, often in puffed or flaked forms.
Uses and Related Commodities
| Downstream industries | Rice milling, Food service, Retail grocery, Food processing |
|---|
Sourcing risks
| Risk | Mitigation |
|---|---|
Mycotoxin contamination Food safetyHigh Improper drying or storage can lead to mold growth and the production of mycotoxins, which are harmful to human health. | Control moisture during drying and storage, and test lots for mycotoxins as part of the buyer's quality assurance program. |
Moisture damage in transit LogisticsMedium Exposure to moisture during transport can lead to mold growth and spoilage, especially since brown rice's bran is more susceptible to moisture damage. | Use dry containers and proper packaging, and inspect for water damage during transit and upon arrival. |
Stored-product pest infestation PestMedium Rice weevils and other stored-product pests can infest brown rice during storage, causing weight loss and contamination. | Implement integrated pest management, including proper sanitation, monitoring, and fumigation when necessary. |
Brown Rice Questions
- What is husked (brown) rice?
- Husked (brown) rice is the whole grain rice kernel with only the outer husk removed, retaining the bran layer.
- How should husked (brown) rice be stored to maintain quality?
- It should be kept in a cool, dry place, protected from moisture and pests, ideally in sealed containers.
- Can husked (brown) rice be directly milled into white rice?
- Yes, it can be further milled to remove the bran layer, producing white rice.