With Filipinos wasting rice enough to feed millions each year, households are being encouraged to follow a simpler ABC guide to reduce rice wastage, support local farmers, and choose healthier rice.
Data from the Department of Science and Technology-Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI) show that each Filipino wastes 26.54 g of rice daily, equivalent to 9.69 kg annually. Collectively, this translates to 542,477.6 mt of rice wasted every year, enough to feed 5.17 million Filipinos for a year.
The “A” reminds households to avoid rice wastage by cooking only what is needed, serving the right portions, finishing rice on the plate, and using leftovers for other meals.
At a dining table in Bulala, Cuyapo, Nueva Ecija, Ruby Irene Mateo reminds her children, “Sayang ang bigas, ubusin ang kanin. Bawat butil ay mahalaga.”
The “B” or buy our farmers’ rice encourages consumers to choose locally produced products to support rural communities and continued local production.
The “C”, choose healthier rice, urges households to include high-zinc rice, pigmented rice, low-glycemic rice, and brown rice.
High-zinc rice contains higher zinc levels than ordinary rice while maintaining similar taste and texture. Pigmented rice contains antioxidants, while low-glycemic index rice may be an option for people managing blood sugar levels. Brown rice provides fiber and other nutrients often reduced during milling.
“The campaign ‘guide’ has transitioned from the previous ABKD to ABC, making the recall easier. It encourages us to be RICEponsible through simple daily actions,” said Dr. Karen Eloisa T. Barroga, Philippine Rice Research Institute deputy executive director for development.
She also said that responsible rice consumption should be practiced year-round, not only during National Rice Awareness Month in November.
