Explore the rising prominence of rice protein, its applications, and economic benefits, shaping the future of nutrition and agriculture.

In recent years, the rice protein industry, a prominent player in the realm of plant-based proteins, has been expanding at a remarkable pace. The rice protein market is categorized into food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and animal feed. Recognized for its nutritional excellence, rice protein boasts a Protein Efficiency Ratio (PER) close to that of casein, a reasonable amino acid composition, and a higher lysine content compared to other cereal crops. As a low-allergenic protein without anti-nutritional factors, it is easily digestible, acknowledged as a high-quality dietary protein, and an ideal plant-based protein feed.

Composition of Rice Protein

Comprising approximately 8% of the total weight, rice protein is divided into four types based on solubility: albumin, globulin, alcohol-soluble protein, and glutelin. Glutelin and alcohol-soluble protein, the main components of rice protein, demonstrate high biological value and low allergenicity. Peptides derived from hydrolysis exhibit effects such as blood pressure reduction and cholesterol-lowering, making rice protein widely used in infant food, food additives, and functional foods. Extraction methods include alkali extraction and acid precipitation, enzyme methods, Osborne fractionation, and physical assistance methods.

Raw Materials for Rice Protein Production

Protein content varies in whole rice (7-9%), rice bran (13.3-17.4%), and rice residue (40-70% on a dry basis, varying with starch content). Broken rice, a byproduct of starch sugar production, is used to prepare rice protein. Rice bran, rich in crude protein, fats, ash, non-nitrogenous extract, B-vitamins, and tocopherols, is an excellent energy feed with superior nutritional concentration, amino acid composition, and fatty acid profile compared to cereal feeds. Moreover, it is more cost-effective than corn and wheat bran.

Applications and Prospects in Livestock and Poultry Production

Rice protein, a plant-based protein rich in balanced amino acids similar to Peruvian fishmeal, enriches livestock feed. With a crude protein content of ≥60%, crude fat ranging from 8% to 9.5%, digestible protein at 56%, and an abundance of lysine, rice protein is at the forefront among cereal foods. Additionally, it contains various trace elements, bioactive substances, and microbial enzyme systems, providing it with physiological regulatory capabilities. When appropriately combined with rice bran meal in livestock and poultry feed at a controlled rate of up to 25%, its feeding value is comparable to that of corn. However, caution is required in non-ruminants due to the high fiber content in rice bran, which can impede growth rates and feed conversion efficiency.

Conclusion and Agricultural Implications

As China’s primary grain, rice, with a production of 213 million tons in 2021, comprising 31.17% of the total grain production, generates significant byproducts such as rice bran and broken rice. These economically priced byproducts hold immense potential for development and utilization in livestock and poultry feed, contributing to the sustainable growth of the agricultural sector.

ETprotein’s Rice Protein: Elevate Nutrition with Quality and Versatility

We highly recommend ETprotein’s rice protein for its exceptional quality and versatile applications. Sourced from premium rice varieties, this protein boasts a remarkable Protein Efficiency Ratio (PER) comparable to casein, ensuring optimal nutritional benefits. Its well-balanced amino acid composition, particularly elevated lysine levels, sets it apart in the market. The extraction methods employed by ETprotein, including alkali extraction and acid precipitation, enzymatic processes, Osborne fractionation, and physical assistance methods, guarantee a product of unparalleled purity. Whether for infant food, food additives, or functional foods, ETprotein’s rice protein, with its low allergenicity and easy digestibility, proves to be an ideal choice. Moreover, its cost-effective utilization of rice byproducts contributes to the sustainable development of the agriculture sector. ETprotein’s commitment to quality and innovation makes their rice protein a standout choice in the competitive market.