In more than 100 cultures, rice is a staple of the human diet. For some people, ‘to eat’ actually means ‘to eat rice’. Among such huge consumers of rice, the demand for brown rice is exponentially growing owing to its several health benefits. It’s a less processed grain with more nutrients.
In Asian countries like Bangladesh, Thailand, and India, brown rice is the mainstay of the people and is consumed globally. The growing shift towards healthy lifestyle has increased the demand for healthy food products and thus led to rise in the production of brown rice in rice-producing countries. This is primarily augmenting the growth of the global brown rice market. Further, the outer layers of brown rice consist of minerals and vitamins making it a healthier choice. In addition to this, it reduces the risk of diabetes, improves heart health, reduces risk of metabolic syndrome, and is a good source of selenium & fiber. These factors along with growing online retailers with rapidly growing e-commerce industry is propelling the growth of the global market. Moreover, rise in incorporation of brown rice in weight loss & management programs for obese population is further contributing to the growth of the market. Furthermore, new product launches and roll out of ready-to-eat organic brown rice can result in several opportunities for the growth of the global market.
The global brown rice market is classified based on length, type, distribution channel, and region. Based on the length, the global market is fragmented into short-grain and long-grain. The type segment comprises brown basmati rice and sweet brown rice. The distribution channel of the global market is bifurcated into online retailers, super/ hyper stores, grocery stores, and department stores.
Asia Pacific is estimated to be the dominating region in the global brown rice market during the forecast period. The presence of major brown rice producers in countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh, and India is the key factor that is contributing to the growth of the market. Further, large consumer base and increase in awareness of health benefits of brown rice are the aspects that are escalating the market growth. North America is estimated to account for significant share in the market.
This is strongly supported by the increase in investments by the major players for the production of brown rice. For instance, in April 2021, Riviana Foods Inc. announced investment of USD 15 million for its plant located in Memphis, Tennessee, to expand instant rice capacity and improve production. On the other hand, with the rise in agricultural and farming activities, the market in Latin America is projected to show significant growth rate.
Some of the key manufacturers operating in the global brown rice market are Daawat, Asia Golden Rice Co., Ltd., T.K. Ricemill and Ash, Riviana Foods Inc., Chandrika Group of Mills, Amira Nature Foods Ltd., SunFoods, LLC., Agistin Biotech Pvt. Ltd., Ebro Foods, and Shiva Shellac and Chemicals among others.