Rice bran oil

Rice bran oil is the oil extracted from the hard outer brown layer of rice called chaff (rice husk). It is known for its high smoke point of 232 °C (450 °F) and mild flavor, making it suitable for high-temperature cooking methods such as stir frying and deep frying. It is popular as a cooking oil in several Asian countries, including Bangladesh, Japan, India, and China.

Composition

Rice bran oil has a balanced amount of monounsaturated, polyunsaturated, and saturated fats. It is notable for containing a high level of oryzanol, an antioxidant that has been shown to have potential health benefits. The oil also contains tocotrienols, a form of vitamin E, and gamma-oryzanol, a mixture of sterols and ferulic acid esters.

Health Benefits

Rice bran oil has been touted for its potential health benefits. It is said to help lower cholesterol levels due to its high level of monounsaturated fats. The presence of antioxidants like oryzanol and tocotrienols can also contribute to heart health. However, more research is needed to fully understand these potential benefits.

Culinary Uses

Due to its high smoke point, rice bran oil is often used in high-temperature cooking methods. It is commonly used in stir frying and deep frying. The oil has a mild flavor that does not overpower the taste of dishes, making it a versatile ingredient in various cuisines.

Production

Rice bran oil is primarily produced in countries where rice is a major crop, such as India, China, Japan, and Bangladesh. The process involves extracting the oil from the rice bran, a byproduct of rice milling. The oil is then refined and sometimes blended with other oils for use in cooking and other applications.

See Also

• List of rice dishes
• List of cooking oils
• Rice production in India
• Rice production in China