- What is paddy rice?
- Paddy rice is the unprocessed grain harvested from the rice plant, still enclosed in its inedible hull. It is the primary raw material for rice milling and is distinct from the milled white or brown rice sold at retail.
- How does paddy rice differ from brown rice?
- Brown rice is the whole grain after the hull is removed, leaving the bran layer intact. Paddy rice still has the hull on, which protects the grain during storage and transport but must be removed before eating.
- What should a buyer check when assessing paddy rice quality?
- Key factors include moisture content, chalkiness, foreign material, and grain uniformity. These affect storage stability, milling yield, and the final appearance and cooking quality of the rice.
- How should paddy rice be stored to maintain quality?
- Store it in a dry, well-ventilated area, protected from moisture, pests, and temperature extremes. Keep the grain off the floor and away from walls to prevent condensation and rodent access.
- Can paddy rice be used directly for food?
- No, paddy rice must be milled to remove the hull before it is edible. The hull is inedible and must be separated through a milling process, which also removes the bran if white rice is desired.