Facts about hybrid grain quality and sustainable rice production Brian Ottis Anna Ochoa

Differences in grain dimensions are apparent but size variability is similar CultivarLengthLength SDWidthWidth SD CL XL CL XL XL Cheniere

Hybrids tends to mill quicker which is likely due to thinner bran layer XL723 (Brown rice) Wells (Brown rice)

Hybrids are likely over-milled if treated like varieties Wells CLXL729 CLXL745 XL723 Hybrids Wells

Gel Temps tend to be slightly higher in hybrids Variety Presidio Hybrids CLXL729 Soaking Steep 3 hr 68 °C (Gel Temp – 3 °C) 71 °C (Gel Temp – 3 °C) Autoclave Pressure Cook 10 psi for 10 min

Understanding the Quality Profile of hybrids is key

Sustainability The Situation Sustainability initiative is taking root among retailers and consumers – Cap and Trade Bill failed – Walmart – Net win for farmers?

What makes hybrids stand out? Higher per capita yields Increased biomass production (carbon sequestration) Cost of production decrease of $1.13/cwt vs pureline variety (U of Ark) Disease resistance

What makes hybrids stand out? Lower energy requirements Shorter growing season (less water) Higher photosynthetic rate Faster milling

Source: N. Lyman, University of Arkansas Rice Processing Program Hybrids have smaller carbon footprint

Industry Relevance Planting 1 acre of CL XL729 instead of ‘Wells’ would reduce GHG emissions by 82 lb/Ac – 1000 acres saves 82,000 lb of carbon equivalents annually! Source: as calculated by the University of Arkansas Rice Processing Programhttp://

Perspective 82,000 lbs of Carbon Equivalent is equivalent to the GHG emissions from: – 26.7 passenger vehicles annually – 16.6 homes annual electricity use – 5,680 5-lb propane cylinders Source: as calculated by the University of Arkansas Rice Processing Program

Conclusion Hybrid rice is the most sustainable rice option you can plant Retailers and consumers may someday demand the most sustainable rice in their products; hybrids fit the bill