Rice: From Ancient Origins to Global Crop

Rice, or Oriza sativa, has been a staple food for over 8000 years, primarily in Asia. It is a diverse crop with thousands of varieties. A 2011 study confirmed that Japonica and indica, the two main subspecies, share a common origin. Rice was domesticated in China and India and spread to Europe and the Americas. It requires specific irrigation and thrives in hot climates. Rice undergoes milling to produce brown and white rice, with white rice being more popular due to its shelf life. Despite its labor-intensive cultivation, rice remains a crucial global food source.

Explain the milling process of rice and the difference between brown rice and white rice.

What factors contribute to rice being considered a global grain?