Throughout history of mankind, rice has been one of man’s most important staple foods. Archeological evidence suggests that rice has been the staple food for more than 5000 years.2 Today, rice is eaten by more than two third of the world population, especially in Asia where 70% of the world’s poor live.3 This unique grain is grown in more than 100 countries

on every continent of the World. Historically, across cultures, rice has been documented as a source of food and for tradition and ritual as well.