Postharvest Management and Value Addition of Rice and Its By-Products

Abstract Approximately 9% of paddy is lost when using traditional methods of postharvest processing; therefore, there is a need to replace these methods with improved technologies. Although harvesters, combine harvesters, mechanical threshers, and winnowers were originally introduced to reduce operational costs, a suitable combine machine should also be designed for drying and segregating immature grains. Sun drying of harvested paddy in open spaces is unhygienic and losses occur due to scattering or pest consumption. Various types of mechanical dryers are available; however, Louisiana State University (LSU)–type dryers and fluidized bed dryers are most commonly used. The use of silos with sensors and aeration is most desirable for bulk storage of dried grains. Different types of milling systems have been developed, the most suitable of which is a rubber-roller sheller mill that gives the highest outturn of rice and produces high-quality bran. Various value-added products of rice have also been developed but products such as ready-made mixes (i.e., dosa and idli ) and noodles have huge potential in the export market. In addition to white rice, milling also produces bran and husk as by-products. The bran has potential to produce edible oil, high-quality protein, and dietary fiber. Fresh rice bran needs to be stabilized. Otherwise, it becomes unfit for human consumption, and the protocol developed by CIPHET was found to be the most suitable in this regard. Rice protein has the highest nutritional value and is known as one of the lowest allergy-generating proteins; however, rice bran protein concentrates and isolates are not commercially produced because of the lack of a commercially feasible extraction method. The fatty acid composition of edible rice bran oil is closest to that recommended by various organizations, including the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). Rice husk has several uses, but the most promising and profitable one is for generating electricity. Rice straw is abundantly available in the country (∼275 million tons in 2014–15) and is the single most important dry fodder for dairy animals. Rice straw also has huge potential to contribute to the growth of the dairy sector, to produce bioenergy, and to be used for electricity generation. Government support is needed to create facilities for enhanced use of biomass for energy generation.