(Source: depositphotos.com) – Tigulliovino.it
Rice in culinary tradition
The rice it is one of the oldest and most versatile foods in the world, present in the culinary traditions of almost every culture. Used as a base for iconic dishes such as risotto in Italy, the sushi in Japan, the biryani in India and the Paella in Spain, rice is appreciated for its ability to adapt to different preparations and flavors.
In Italy, in particular, rice has a special place in the cuisine, with varieties such as Carnaroli or theArborio which are essential for the preparation of creamy and tasty risottos. Despite the popularity and importance of rice in the daily diet, not all varieties and brands of rice offer the same quality.
The difference between a good rice and a lower quality one can significantly influence the final result of the dishes. Therefore, it is crucial choose carefully the rice to purchase, taking into account factors such as variety, cultivation method, and production practices.
Altroconsumo: the ranking of the best rice brands
A recent analysis conducted by Altroconsumo highlighted these differences, drawing up a ranking of the best and worst rice brands available on the Italian market. The investigation considered various aspects of rice quality, including the presence of contaminantsthe consistency of the beansand the taste. According to the analysis by Altroconsumo, rice Carnaroli has emerged as one of the best quality varieties on the Italian market. This variety is particularly appreciated for its ability to maintain shape during cooking and absorb flavours, making it ideal for risottos and other refined dishes.
First place in the ranking of the best Carnaroli rice brands was awarded to The Seasons of Italy And Vo riceboth with an overall score of 80 out of 100. They follow Almo rice And Gallo Reservewith scores of 78 and 76 out of 100 respectively. Rice a Coop brand was distinguished by the title of best buyoffering excellent value for money.
(Source: depositphotos.com) – Tigulliovino.it
Recommendations for consumers
However, not all rice brands they achieved positive results. Altroconsumo reported to Ministry of Health three brands of Carnaroli rice, specifically Large-scale distribution, Conad, Pam and Mondella-MD due to the presence of cadmium above the permitted limits. Among these, the Pam brand Carnaroli rice was particularly criticized, sold in 1 kg packs at a price of 3.35 euros, for its insufficient overall quality and the risk of cadmium contamination.
Altroconsumo’s analysis highlights the importance of making informed choices when purchasing rice. Consumers should pay attention to the quality of the product and the information provided on it labels. Transparency in the provenance and growing practices of rice is essential to ensure that the foods we bring to the table are safe and healthy.
