Riceberry

Riceberry is enriched with both water-soluble—mainly anthocyanin—and lipid soluble antioxidants, such as carotenoid,[2] gamma oryzanol, and vitamin E. The nutritional properties of Riceberry are concentrated in its bran, with only a small fraction in its endosperm. This is true of all cereals, meaning that it is best to consume whole, rather than polished, grains.

The potential anti-cancer activity of compounds extracted from Riceberry bran was evaluated in human cancer cell lines (Caco-2, MCF-7, and HL-60).[3]

In clinical studies at the Faculty of Medicine at Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Riceberry whole grain rice was determined to have a "medium" glycemic index (GI=62).[4] Riceberry bran has the potential to improve hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia as well as alleviate oxidative stress and inflammation.[5] The effect of Riceberry oil supplements also affected hyperglycemia and changes in lipid profile in Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats fed a high fat diet. Riceberry bran oil, a nutraceutical food, may be useful as an alternative food supplement for the alleviation of hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia conditions.[6] Riceberry has potential as an effective agent for neurodegeneration and memory impairment in Alzheimer's disease.[7]

Whole Grain Riceberry

Serving Size: 50 g

The Commerce Ministry aims to increase Riceberry cultivation from 5,000 rai to 20,000 rai (3,200 hectares) by 2018 to address in the world market demand for organic brown rice. The yield from 5,000 rai amounts to only 1,500 tonnes.[8] Demand for premium organic rice is still small, accounting for only one to two percent of total rice exports, but as Riceberry sells for two or three times the price of white rice,[9] it has the potential to increase farming incomes.[10] As of 2015 Riceberry sold in the domestic market for about 50 baht a kilogram, while the export price was 200 baht per kilogram.[8]