In honour of National Rice Month, we're spotlighting a versatile and sustainable superstar ingredient that can significantly enhance your menus - U.S.-grown rice. Let's discover why this staple grain is your secret weapon for creating sustainable, cost-effective, and diverse menu offerings:

  • Origin: There's something special about using ingredients close to home. U.S.-grown rice, is as local as it gets for Canadians. This not only ensures freshness and quality, but it also cuts down on the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation of imported varieties. 
  • Affordability: With the cost of ingredients on the rise, U.S.-grown rice offers a smart, versatile and budget-friendly solution. It provides excellent plate coverage, and offers diverse culinary applications across a broad range of high-margin dishes.
  • Versatility: Appealing to Canada’s diverse population and culinary curiosity, rice is an essential component of the global flavours that today’s patrons love. Rice is the vehicle to carry a variety of flavours, spices, and cooking techniques, providing opportunities for menu variety and seasonal dishes. From Italian risotto to Spanish paella or a flavourful Mexican rice dish, this grain effortlessly carries various flavours, offering exciting options for menu innovation.
  • Nutrition: Beyond its versatility and affordability, U.S.-grown rice is a nutritious choice. It's a good source of fibre, vitamins, minerals, and is naturally sodium-free, gluten-free, and virtually fat-free, catering to various dietary needs and preferences of today's diverse diners.
  • Sustainability: U.S. rice farmers have made remarkable strides in sustainability over the past 36 years, boosting yields by 53% while simultaneously reducing land use by 39%, energy use by 34%, and water use by 52% - and all this without the use of GMOs. By choosing U.S.-grown rice, you’re joining a growing movement of eco-conscious foodservice professionals responding to the demand of 71% of consumers who identify themselves as "sustainable consumers."

U.S.-grown rice provides a pathway for chefs and restaurateurs to meet consumer demands for sustainably sourced, affordable ingredients. Explore more about the benefits of U.S. rice and partnership opportunities here.