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Concerns about plastic rice have led many to question the authenticity and safety of the rice they consume. While the idea of plastic rice is largely a myth, it’s wise to know how to verify the quality of your rice. Here are six simple steps to ensure the rice in your pantry is genuine.
- Water Test
Add a tablespoon of rice to a glass of cold water. Authentic rice will sink, while plastic rice tends to float due to its lower density. - Fire Test
Burn a few grains of rice. Genuine rice will char or burn like typical grains, whereas plastic rice will produce a pungent smell reminiscent of burnt plastic. - Mold Test
Boil some rice and store it in a warm, moist environment. Natural rice should develop mold within a couple of days. If it doesn’t, it may not be authentic. - Hot Oil Test
Drop a few grains into very hot oil. Real rice will begin to cook and may pop like popcorn, while plastic rice will melt and create a sticky residue at the bottom of the pan.