Frequently Asked Questions
Are these all the rice varieties available in Korea?
About 240 rice varieties bred by the Rural Development Administration are listed in Korea’s national variety catalog. OZICME introduces selected major varieties that are widely cultivated by farmers, taking into account regional conditions, eating quality, yield, and resistance to pests and diseases. These are representative varieties whose quality and productivity have been well established.
What are the advantages of rice compared with grains such as wheat?
Rice consists mainly of starch and also contains protein, carbohydrates, fat, minerals such as calcium, iron and magnesium, and B vitamins. It has been a staple grain throughout human history. A balanced Korean-style meal combines rice with vegetables and protein-rich side dishes, allowing rice to serve as a versatile foundation for a varied diet.
What criteria are used for the taste-based Rice Search?
Among the components of rice, amylose, amylopectin and protein content are major factors that influence texture and preference. Grain size, growing region, fertilizer use and cultivation period can also affect eating quality. OZICME combines these characteristics to help you explore rice varieties that may suit your taste and the foods you enjoy. Actual taste can still vary depending on the farm, RPC handling, storage and cooking conditions, so trying a single-variety rice yourself is the best way to discover your preference.
Do I have to eat brown rice for health or dieting?
Brown rice retains more of the outer layers of the grain and therefore contains more of some nutrients and dietary fiber than white rice. However, the best choice depends on your overall diet, digestion and personal preference. OZICME recommends considering rice as part of a balanced meal with vegetables and protein rather than judging a meal by the type of rice alone.
What is the difference between blended rice and single-variety rice?
Blended rice combines different varieties, which may have different grain characteristics, cooking properties and intended uses. This can make the eating quality less consistent. Single-variety rice makes it easier to understand the characteristics of the rice you are eating and to reproduce a more consistent texture and flavor. More restaurants are beginning to pay attention to the variety of rice they serve.
What criteria are used to list Rice Processing Centers (RPCs)?
Rice Processing Centers (RPCs) are facilities that dry, process, inspect and distribute harvested rice. OZICME gives priority to established RPCs with appropriate processing facilities and quality-management systems, especially those that handle single-variety rice or operate their own online sales channels.
How can our RPC be listed on OZICME?
OZICME primarily introduces established RPCs. If your RPC sells single-variety rice through its own online store or is interested in being listed, please contact us and we will review the information for possible registration.
Does an unlisted RPC necessarily mean lower-quality rice?
No. Some large, modern RPCs are not listed because they mainly supply wholesalers, major retailers or large-volume customers, or because they focus on blended rice rather than single-variety rice. Not being listed on OZICME does not by itself indicate lower quality.
