Rice Bran

What Is Rice Bran?

Rice bran (Oryza sativa) is the fibrous, oily outer layer separated when brown rice is converted (polished) into white rice. Since it is the outermost part of the grain, it is dense in both fiber and minerals.

It is a fine, light brown mixture of powder and flakes with a mildly nutty taste. Rather than being a food on its own, it is used as an additive to add fiber and nutrition to products.

Nutritional Values of Rice Bran

100 grams of rice bran contains around 316 kcal of energy, 21 g of fiber and 13.3 g of protein; it is rich in magnesium, phosphorus and B vitamins. It is a product dense in fiber and minerals.

What Are the Benefits of Rice Bran?

With its high fiber and mineral content, rice bran can be considered part of a balanced diet; in the case of sudden, high consumption, drinking plenty of water and increasing the amount gradually is recommended.

This information is general; rice bran is a food, not a substitute for medical treatment.

How to Choose Rice Bran?

Good rice bran should be light brown, dry and have a fresh-nutty smell. Rancid, damp or clumped samples have lost their freshness; the stabilized variety keeps longer.

• Color should be light brown, texture should be dry
• Smell should be fresh-nutty
• Rancidity and dampness are signs of aging

How to Store Rice Bran?

Since rice bran turns rancid quickly due to its oil content, it is stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator or freezer; it should be protected from moisture. Non-stabilized bran should especially be kept in the cold.

Using Rice Bran in the Kitchen

Rice bran is added to breakfast mixes, bread, cake, cookies and smoothies as a fiber additive; it is also sprinkled over yogurt and soup. Since it absorbs liquid, the amount of water is increased slightly in dough recipes.

How Much Rice Bran Is Added to Dough?

Generally a small portion of the flour is replaced with bran; since too much makes the dough heavy and reduces rising, it is added in moderation and the liquid is increased slightly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is rice bran gluten-free?

Yes; rice is naturally gluten-free, so rice bran is also suitable for those on a gluten-free diet (a certified product can be preferred against cross-contamination).

Why does rice bran turn rancid quickly?

Its natural oil easily turns rancid at room temperature; that is why it is stored in the cold and "stabilized" varieties are preferred.

Are rice bran and rice flour the same?

No; rice flour is the ground white part of the grain, while rice bran is the outer fibrous layer. The two are used for different purposes.