Science & Technology

Researchers from Walailak University Center of Excellence in Innovation of Essential Oil and Bioactive Compounds support organic rice farming, helping Ao Kian Organic Rice Community Enterprise become the first in Nakhon Si Thammarat to meet Food and Drug Administration (FDA) standards for organic rice agriculture.

With its variety of appearances, colors, and textures, rice serves as a staple for half of the world's population. Local organic rice varieties are a great choice, offering a delicious taste, soft texture, safety, and nutrients. Recently, the research team for the Development of Premium-Quality Brown Rice and Its Derived Products for the Premium Market at Walailak University successfully assisted Ao Kian Organic Rice Community Enterprise in obtaining rice registration from the FDA, marking the first successful FDA rice registration in Nakhon Si Thammarat.

More than 50 households in Pak Phanang District, whose livelihoods are based on rice farming, joined to build a community rice mill and warehouse. This community initiative aimed to reduce the cost of rice milling, and through the transfer of knowledge and technology from Walailak University, the rice production process became standardized and environmentally friendly.

One crucial aspect is the rice storage process, where the farmers use safe and chemical-free technologies to preserve unhusked and milled rice. Controlled packaging and radio wave technology are employed to eliminate mold and ensure the rice remains free from harmful substances. As a result, consumers can confidently consume rice that is chemical-free, reducing health risks associated with mold, insects, and fungi.

“Currently, the community has successfully registered several rice varieties with the FDA: Hom Pathum Rice, Hom Nil Rice, Sangyod Rice, and Riceberry Rice. This accomplishment represents a milestone in offering safe and premium-quality rice to consumers. And the researchers are proud to support the community in meeting international standards," said Associate Professor Dr. Narumol Matan, a researcher, and the Head of the Center of Excellence in Innovation of Essential Oil and Bioactive Compounds.

The research team also analyzed the original rice of Nakhon Si Thammarat - Khai Mod Rin Rice - and found that the protein content in this rice remains at around ten percent after cooking or processing, which is high compared to just three to seven percent in other types of rice. This finding has led to the production of rice-made snacks, intending to provide school students with enhanced protein and vitamins, helping to solve the problem of nutrient deficiency in children.

The research team consists of Assistant Professor Dr. Apsorn Sattayakhom, Assistant Professor Dr. Phanit Koomhin, Assistant Professor Dr. Tanong Aewsiri, Assistant Professor Dr. Siriwatchana Kaeophanuek, Assistant Professor Dr. Sumethee Songsamoe, and Dr. Kannattha Chaisriya. For those interested in organic rice, please contact Mr. Suchart Tiemdee or Mrs. Aree Kongthong from Ao Kian Organic Rice Community Enterprise, Ban Ao Kian, Village No.7, Chamao Sub-district, Pak Phanang District, Nakhon Si Thammarat, at Phone number: 089-455-3398.

Photos by Center of Excellence in Innovation of Essential Oil and Bioactive Compounds
Article by Settabot Onphakdee, Division of Corporate Communication