More Moms Serving Up Rice as a Side

ARLINGTON, Va.A recent survey conducted by the USA Rice Federation revealed 83 percent of U.S. moms are serving domestically grown rice to their families for its taste, versatility and nutritional benefits. The findings also found mothers are dishing up both enriched-white and whole-grain brown rice most often as a side dish with chicken, vegetables or beans.

Research recently published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association (JADA) confirms that eating rice helps improve overall diet and potentially reduces the risk for many chronic diseases, including obesity, cardiovascular disease and Type 2 diabetes.

The survey also found taste, versatility and nutrition are the most frequently cited reasons (73%) moms serve rice to their families. Convenience and price also rounded out the assets that make rice a top choice for family meals.

Were delighted that moms and their families appreciate the great taste and versatility of rice," said Anne Banville, vice president for domestic promotion programs for USA Rice Federation. Rice can go in many flavor directionssuch as Asian, Mexican, Indian and Southwestso it fits well with popular cuisines todays families like. We want moms also to be aware of the important health benefits of rice. Brown rice is a whole grain and diets rich in whole grains are shown to have many benefits, including a reduced risk of Type 2 diabetes and heart disease, and, U.S.-grown white rice is fortified with folic acid, which helps prevent certain birth defects, and provides health benefits throughout the lifecycle."