The Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) said its food technologists successfully infused yogurt with nutrient-rich rice bran to enhance its health benefits.
In a statement dated Jan 31, 2025, PhilRice said the rice-enhanced yogurt incorporates fermented pigmented rice bran or the outer layer of red and black rice known for its high antioxidant content, phenolic compounds and vitamin E derivatives.
PhilRice said the breakthrough was developed by food technologist Dr. Henry Corpuz and his team.
“Yogurt is already rich in vitamins and protein due to its fermentation process, we’re making it even better by using buffalo milk, in partnership with the Philippine Carabao Center and Central Luzon State University and enriching it with pigmented rice bran,” Corpuz said.
PhilRice added that initial studies also indicate that co-fermenting yogurt with stabilized rice bran significantly increases antioxidant activity as the dietary fiber in rice bran also aids in weight management by promoting longer satiety and controlled food intake.
Apart from the rice bran yogurt, the agency is also developing rice-based pastries and baked goods to improve nutritional value while reducing post-harvest losses.
In a separate statement on Monday, PhilRice said the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) research-for-development (R4D) initiatives also seeks for other rice-related innovations to address challenges posed by climate change, food security and public health, while boosting productivity and resilience in the country’s agricultural systems.
Through PhilRice, the DA has introduced climate-resilient rice varieties, cost-efficient technologies and sustainable farming systems that help farmers mitigate the effects of climate change for a more sustainable and productive agriculture sector.
PhilRice said among key breakthroughs in terms of developed rice varieties are those that can thrive under multiple extreme conditions and can thrive in drought-prone and saline areas as well as those that can withstand drought, submergence and salinity.
“These varieties, which endure multiple extreme conditions, are game-changers for our farmers. They ensure that even with climate unpredictability, our farms remain resilient and productive,” said Dr. Eduardo Jimmy Quilang, PhilRice deputy executive director for research.
In addition to climate-resilient rice, PhilRice, together with the International Rice Research Institute also developed low-glycemic rice varieties and those that has higher levels of iron and zinc.