On
saving our rice and minimising losses
This was stated by Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC)
Secretary and PARC Agricultural Engineering Division (AED) Director General Dr
Munir Ahmad while addressing all stakeholders including farmers, machinery
service providers, rice millers, rice exporters, manufacturers, and
representatives of line departments on the occasion of a day-long national
seminar on “Rice quality and head recovery affected by harvesting/threshing and
milling practices” at a local hotel in Gujranwala.
Speaking on the occasion, National Agricultural Research Council
(NARC) Director General Dr Muhammad Azeem Khan said that by adopting new
improved harvesting machines, about 4-6 billion worth of losses in rice quality
could be saved annually. He said PARC has developed various crop productions
technologies and innovations for the benefit of small farmers. He said we are
working with various stakeholders for transfer of new innovations to the
end-users to make the agriculture more profitable.
Speaking on the occasion, NARC Agricultural and Biological
Engineering Institute (ABEI) Director Dr Tanveer Ahmad said that due to
traditional drying and storage practices more often rice produced is affected
by aflatoxin. Poor crop conditions also affect rice head rice recovery. PARC
has conducted a study factors causing low head rice recovery. The results
showed that conventional combines are causing low head rice recovery and paddy
harvested by head feeding combines and manual harvesting gave better head rice
recovery.
After detailed discussion, some recommendations were suggested by
the participants of the seminar which include i) development of new improved
rice varieties; ii) introduction of high capacity head feeding combines; iii)
installation of rice kit on already operating conventional wheat combines that
are being used for rice harvesting; iv) Engineering Institute with
collaboration of Engro (Pvt) initiate a project to design and develop an
improved rice threshing kit for conventional combine harvesters; v) Government
legislation to restrict farmers and combine service providers not to harvest
paddy crop at higher moisture content; and vi) introduction of mechanical
dryers, etc.
Source with thanks;http://www.pakistantoday.com.pk/2014/12/09/business/on-saving-our-rice-and-minimising-losses/
Good soybean output,
but not corn and wheat: StatsCan
05.12.2014
Ontario farmers reported a record
production of soybeans this year but outputs of corn for grain and winter wheat
were lower.Statistics Canada says soybean production in the province reached a
record 3.8 million tonnes -- 17.1 per cent above last year's total.The agency
says the increased production was driven by a 17.9 per cent rise in harvested
area, while yield was down slightly.Production of corn for grain was down
almost 16 per cent from 2013's record level of nine million tonnes while winter
wheat production was down nearly 29 per cent, falling to 1.6 million tonnes.
Long dry
spell expected to dampen rice production
Ronnel W.
Domingo
MANILA, Philippines–The probability
that the El Niño weather disturbance will occur in the near future has climbed
back up to 70 percent, but a “strong” event is not expected, according to a
United Nations agency.
In its latest market monitoring
report, the Agriculture Market Information System (AMIS) said the global rice
supply situation would remain “generally favorable,” although the rice
production forecast for 2014 still indicated a decline from that of 2013.The
AMIS, which is administered by the Food and Agriculture Organization,
attributes the expected decline—by 2 million tons to 496 million tons—to
contracting output in India, Indonesia, Sri Lanka and Thailand.
Last month, expectations of a long,
dry spell that could dampen food production were pegged at a 50-percent
chance.Citing information from the Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) and
the International Research Institute for Climate and Society (IRI), the AMIS
noted that atmospheric and sea surface conditions pointed to a 70-percent
probability that the El Niño could last until January.The criteria for an
actual El Niño, however, have not been met “because the conditions have not
been in place long enough, and certain atmospheric features have not yet
appeared,” the AMIS said. “A strong event is not expected, in any case.”
Still, the agency noted that the
IRI forecast indicated an increased chance of below-average precipitation in
Southeast Asia.Rice farmers in the Philippines are currently in the latter
stage of harvest. But food security authorities have raised their concerns over
the possible effects of Typhoon “Ruby” on agricultural production.
According to Agriculture Secretary
Proceso J. Alcala, some 12,000 bags of seeds are now ready for distribution,
and the department has started to make preparations for what has been described
to be the strongest typhoon to hit the country this year.“We advise farmers,
whose crops are ready, to harvest quickly before Ruby arrives,” Alcala said on
Friday. “We want to minimize the effect of this typhoon.”
A total of 691,692 hectares planted
to palay, and 303,542 hectares planted to corn are ready for harvest, he
said.In the Eastern Visayas alone, Alcala added, a total of 3,800 bags of
certified seeds and 8,300 bags of hybrid seeds—all from the Philippine Rice
Research Institute—have been made ready for quick replanting.Overall, the
Department of Agriculture has prepared a buffer stock of seeds totaling 78,479
bags for rice, and 17,554 for corn. It has also issued directives for the
relocation of livestock and other farm animals from high-risk areas.
Read more: http://business.inquirer.net/183153/long-dry-spell-expected-to-dampen-rice-production#ixzz3LOszLhvI
DA sets
new record in rice production
By Ian Ocampo Flora
Sunday, December 7, 2014
CITY OF SAN FERNANDO -- The Department of
Agriculture (DA) here has finally set a new record in palay crop production
after it is now near its target of 3, 743 540 million ton palay production
exceeding its target of 3, 524, 558 metric tons.DA regional director Andrew
Villacorta said that the record breaking production could be attributed to the
good weather in Central Luzon for the later part of the year, stressing that
the production gives a clear outlook on the real capacity of Central Luzon.
"This is part of what Central Luzon can
produce provided that we have good weather and that all possible agriculture
interventions are implemented," Villacorta said, adding part of this
year's production has a great impact on the national production
target.Villacorta said that Nueva Ecija contributes to a great portion of the
region's performance with 318, 299 hectares used in the entire season with an
accumulated production of 1.6 million metric tons followed by Tarlac province
with 585, 077 metric tons. Pampanga is nearby with 419, 721 metric tons.
The DA said that Nueva Ecija's outstanding
performance could be credited in to the use of hybrid and certified seeds in
their palay production. Villacorta also stressed that the province's farmers
have been active in using the latest technology and systems to further improve
their productions.Villacorta also said that the region has set a new record in
the average palay production with 5.22 metric tons per hectare compared with
last year's 4.80 metric tons per hectare.
UPDATE
1-Philippines may seek up to 600,000 T rice imports after typhoon
Initial crop
losses from typhoon seen at around 20,000 T
* Fresh Philippine demand could support Asia rice prices (Adds
comments from NFA chief)
MANILA, Dec 8 (Reuters) - The Philippines' state grains agency said on Monday it will consider
importing up to an additional 600,000 tonnes of rice to boost buffer stocks after Typhoon Hagupit damaged crops
and prompted the release of emergency supplies.Crop losses this quarter from
bad weather and a projected drop in first-quarter output next year have put the
Philippines, one of the world's biggest rice buyers, under pressure to boost
imports in order to maintain a healthy buffer stock in 2015.Fresh demand from
the Philippines could support softening rice export prices in main suppliers Thailand and Vietnam.
A team at the National Food Authority (NFA) has recommended that a
standing order to import 500,000 tonnes of rice in case of a natural disater
should be increased by 100,000 tonnes, NFA Administrator Renan Dalisay told
Reuters."We're seeking a meeting of the NFA Council to discuss the
recommendation of the group in charge of computing our requirements,"
Dalisay said.The review would be carried out by a panel of Cabinet members,
chaired by Food Security Secretary Francis Pangilinan.The Department of
Agriculture said initial reports showed nearly 20,000 tonnes of unmilled rice
from standing crops had been damaged by strong winds and rains from Hagupit,
which battered the Philippines over the weekend.
Dalisay said it was too early to give a timetable for any rice
purchases or to say whether they would be made through tenders or
government-to-government deals.The NFA bought more than 1.8 million tonnes from
Vietnam and Thailand over the past 12 months, aggressively
shoring up its buffer stocks while releasing more rice into local marketsto bring down retail prices that hit record highs in recent
months.The agency was forced to import more, bringing in the biggest annual
volume in four years, after its stocks were almost depleted due to relief
efforts and crop losses following category-5 Super Typhoon Haiyan' wrath in
November 2013.
Dalisay said the NFA began releasing more rice stocks from its
warehouses last week to boost supply in areas expected to be hit by Hagupit,
including Samar island provinces where the typhoon first hit on Saturday.
The agency expects to release more stocks, with a number of local
government officials in areas hit by the typhoon seeking additional NFA supply,
he said.
Any new shipments will be tariff-free and on top of an annual volume
of up to 805,200 tonnes that the private sector can bring in. The annual volume
attracts a tariff of 35 percent.
(Reporting by Erik dela Cruz; Editing by Sunil Nair and Richard
Pullin)
BAAC says payments under rice growers'
assistance scheme halfway complete
Sunday, 07 December 2014
BANGKOK, 6 December 2014 - The Bank
for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives (BAAC) has indicated that the
assistance money scheme for rice growers is about halfway complete, with 2.25
million rice growers having already been paid.Supat Eauchai, executive vice
president of the BAAC, revealed that the bank is currently making payments to
about 100,000 rice growers per day, and is disbursing about 1.2 billion baht
per day under the scheme. Up until Thursday, 23.8 billion baht has been paid to
2.25 million eligible rice growers. He said the payment is about halfway done
and almost all farmers will likely be paid by December 20, although this would
not be the case for the South because the planting season arrives later than in
other regions.
Source with thanks: http://www.pattayamail.com/business/baac-says-payments-under-rice-growers-assistance-scheme-halfway-complete-43459#sthash.2rVZlUdm.dpuf
Body
set up to check falling rice exports
KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister
Syed Qaim Ali Shah has formed a committee to look into problems being faced by
rice growers and to suggest measures to check falling rice exports.
Labourers sit on top of a pile of
rice sacks. — Reuters/File
Similarly, they pointed out that
if proper negotiations are made, around 500,000 to 700,000 tonnes of
non-Basmati rice could be exported to China. The exporters said they can fetch
better price in Indonesia and Iran.The chief minister was also informed about
rice exporters’ problem of power outages which result in closure of processing
plants in Hawkesbay Industrial area.
Published in Dawn, December 6th,
2014
Boosting exports: Paris gets
taste of traditional Pakistani rice
By APP
Published: December 6, 2014
Rice export from Pakistan to
France was worth $31.72 million during January-September 2014. STOCK IMAGE
ISLAMABAD:
The show was also aimed
at facilitating meetings between Pakistani exporters and French importers for
promoting rice export.Rice export from Pakistan to France was worth $31.72
million during January-September 2014, most of which was consumed by the ethnic
market.It was expected that the exhibition would help increase rice export,
said a message received from Paris on Friday. number of French importers were
invited to participate and meet Pakistani exporters, who were invited to Paris
especially for the event.The embassy coordinated their meetings in order to
have detailed discussions on business proposals.Services of a top French chef
Alian Stril were acquired to serve Basmati rice. He prepared three different
French dishes while traditional Pakistani dishes like Biryani, Zarda and Kheer
made by Pakistani cooks were also presented.
Published in The Express
Tribune, December 6th, 2014.
Like Business on Facebook, follow @TribuneBiz on
Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.
Ghana to
soon be a net-exporter of rice
Local rice production has seen a 60% increase
in Ghana, President John Mahama has said, adding that the country may well be
on its way to becoming a net exporter of rice.“We have seen an increase of rice
production. Rice production in Ghana has increased by more than 60%,” he said
at the 30th National Best Farmers Day Award ceremony at Sefwi Wiawso in the
Western region Friday December 5, 2014.Ghana currently imports rice to the tune
of US$500million every year. “The last statistics was US$470million worth of
rice,” the President decried as he urged Ghanaians to eat what they grow.
Apart from rice, US$1 billion of other produce
which are produced in Ghana or can easily be produced in Ghana are also
imported. Meanwhile the country’s yearly exports hover around US$13 billion
while its imports bill stands at about US$17 billion.The President said the
development in local rice production means “we are growing more local rice and
you can see the attractiveness of the rice industry by the investment that has
started to be made by the private sector in this industry.”
“Several private sector business people have
set up rice milling plants in various parts of the country and are buying
locally produced rice and milling it not only for our local market but also for
export.And it is my belief that if this trend continues, Ghana should become a
net exporter of rice in the next few years,” President Mahama said.The
President also revealed that Ghana has achieved self-sufficiency as far as
maize production and other produce are concerned.“We have achieved
self-sufficiency in maize production and indeed last year for the first time in
many years we were able to export maize through the World Food Programme… The
World Food Programme bought some maize on the Ghanaian market for export to the
Sahelian region where they have humanitarian programmes of food relief. We have
achieve self-sufficiency in yam production. Indeed we are over-producing yam
and we are an exporter of yam to Europe and other destinations.
“We have achieved self-sufficiency in cassava
production and we are producing enough cassava to feed ourselves. We have
achieved self-sufficiency in plantain production and plantain is available
everywhere in this country.”The President, however, said more needs to be done
in vegetable production. “One area we need to increase production is in the
production of vegetables. Vegetables are easy to grow and it is something that
we can take up. There is no reason why we must continue to import vegetables from
South Africa. Several of our supermarkets are receiving vegetables: carrots,
onions, tomatoes and other such vegetables from South Africa. We must make it
our vision to produce these vegetables locally and supply to these
supermarkets.
“We also have extended assistance to the
poultry sector. And major poultry enterprises are being given assistance from
the Export Development and Agricultural Investment Fund, EDAIF, in order to
expand their production of poultry.“At the same time we are reducing and
restricting the import of poultry in order that we can give a chance to local
poultry producers to have a fair access to our local market. So for those who
are interested in poultry it is a business you can go into and make a lot of
money.”
Vietnam
Donates Five Thousand Tons of Rice to Cuba
Created on Saturday, 06 December
2014 12:26
Tamaño letra:
HAVANA, Cuba, Dec 6 (acn) Nguyen
Huu Tri, Deputy Finance Minister of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam,
announced the donation of five thousand tons of rice to Cuba, on behalf of the
people and government of the Asian nation.The symbolic handover took place
during a ceremony held in the Hall of Protocol of the Ministry of Foreign Trade
and Foreign Investment, also attended by Odalys Escandel and Felix Martinez,
deputy Domestic Trade and Finance and Prices Ministers, respectively.The
Vietnamese leader recalled the historic ties between the two countries, and
said that his countrymen will not forget the courage of the Cuban officers and
sailors to transport necessary goods during the war in his country.
Huu Tri said that cooperation for
rice production in the Caribbean nation also includes 40 million dollars to
boost efficiency and yields in the cultivation of rice.Odalys Escandel conveyed
the gratitude of the people of the Caribbean island, and noted that Vietnam is
an important trading partner for Cuba.Since last December 2 the Vietnamese
delegation completes a busy schedule of work, including visits and exchanges of
experiences with Ministry of Finance and the National Institute of State
Reserve.
New
strategy aimed at selling rice stocks
Newspaper section: Business
Writer: Phusadee
Arunmas
A new roadmap will be submitted to the National
Rice Policy Committee soon to facilitate and accelerate the disposal of the
government's rice stocks. A committee source said it was expected to be
implemented early next year."After the nationwide rice stock inspection
has finished, authorities are now in the process of classifying rice grades,
which is very difficult,'' the source said."This is because the state rice
stocks in various warehouses nationwide are intermingled and mixed without a
proper classification of the type of rice.
"The government is estimated to control
18-19 million tonnes of rice accumulated from the rice pledging programme
of the previous government.Deputy Commerce Minister Apiradi
Tantraporn said once authorities completed grading of the rice, selling would
be easier, as they could sell stocks based on grade.The government is also
committed to selling as much of the rice stocks as possible
via government-to-government (G-to-G) contracts, she said, adding that
several potential buyers including Hong Kong and Iraq were interested in
the rice.The Foreign Trade Department earlier said
the government expected to deliver 900,000 to 1 million tonnes
of rice by year-end through G-to-G contracts.
Thailand has so far shipped more than 700,000
tonnes through G-to-G deals, mainly to China, Indonesia and the
Philippines.Talks to sell more rice from state stocks are also under
way with several African and Middle East countries.Commerce Minister Chatchai
Sarikulya said the government would also call a new auction to sell rice
stocks sometime this month, but the amount to be sold has not
been disclosed.The Commerce Ministry held a third round of
state rice auctions for 270,000 tonnes in October, but results
are not yet available.The ministry sold 140,000 tonnes in the first
two auctions, raising 1.6 billion baht. After halting rice sales
to carry out nationwide inspections, the government resumed sales of 167,000
tonnes on Aug 7.In the first 10 months, Thailand shipped 8.77 million
tonnes of rice, fetching 140 billion baht. Export volume rose by 62.4%
year-on-year and value by 27%.
Ministry
calls for rice stock selloff
Published:
8
Dec 2014 at 06.00
Newspaper
section: News
Writer: Phusadee
Arunmas
The Commerce Ministry plans to accelerate the
sale of 17 million tonnes of stockpiled rice and recapture the Thai Hom Mali rice
market in Hong Kong by next year. Commerce Minister Chatchai
Sarikulya said yesterday the ministry hopes to regain Thailand's position as
the No.1 Hom Mali rice exporter in Hong Kong after losing its market position
to Vietnam due to the steep price of Thai rice this year.The ministry has
proposed a rice sales framework for 2015 to be considered by the National Rice
Policy and Management Committee.The framework would vary prices according to
rice quality.
A different criterion will be applied to low-quality
rice to quickly sell off the remaining stocks. It also proposes selling entire
rice stockpiles to increase the efficiency of rice management.Of the 17 million
tonnes of rice, 14 million are substandard, according to the Commerce Ministry.
About 700,000 tonnes are rotten and 200,000 tonnes were lost.Only 10% is of
good quality, according to the National Rice Policy and Management Committee's
report, Gen Chatchai said.The ministry will work with rice mill operators, rice
exporters and rice growers to discuss "suitable" market prices to
ensure a fair return for farmers.
The National Rice Policy and Management
Committee backs ministry plans to sell 400,000 tonnes of rice this month. About
350,000 tonnes were sold previously.The ministry is drafting a plan to boost
rice consumption.On Dec 18, Gen Chatchai and Agriculture Minister Pitipong
Phuengboon Na Ayudhaya plan to inspect Hom Mali paddy fields in Yasothon to
persuade local farmers to grow high-quality rice.Aside from rice strategy, the
ministry is calling on Thailand to increase border trade ahead of
the Asean Economic Community, fostering better agricultural product
management and improving livelihoods.It is also encouraging trade with new
overseas markets after successful negotiations with Turkey, Bahrain and
Pakistan.
Ghana to
soon be a net-exporter of rice
Apart from rice, US$1 billion of other produce
which are produced in Ghana or can easily be produced in Ghana are also
imported. Meanwhile the country’s yearly exports hover around US$13 billion
while its imports bill stands at about US$17 billion.The President said the
development in local rice production means “we are growing more local rice and
you can see the attractiveness of the rice industry by the investment that has
started to be made by the private sector in this industry.”“Several private
sector business people have set up rice milling plants in various parts of the
country and are buying locally produced rice and milling it not only for our
local market but also for export.
“And it is my belief that if this trend
continues, Ghana should become a net exporter of rice in the next few years,”
President Mahama said.The President also revealed that Ghana has achieved
self-sufficiency as far as maize production and other produce are concerned.“We
have achieved self-sufficiency in maize production and indeed last year for the
first time in many years we were able to export maize through the World Food
Programme… The World Food Programme bought some maize on the Ghanaian market
for export to the Sahelian region where they have humanitarian programmes of
food relief. We have achieve self-sufficiency in yam production. Indeed we are
over-producing yam and we are an exporter of yam to Europe and other
destinations.
“We have achieved self-sufficiency in cassava
production and we are producing enough cassava to feed ourselves. We have
achieved self-sufficiency in plantain production and plantain is available
everywhere in this country.”The President, however, said more needs to be done
in vegetable production. “One area we need to increase production is in the
production of vegetables. Vegetables are easy to grow and it is something that
we can take up. There is no reason why we must continue to import vegetables
from South Africa. Several of our supermarkets are receiving vegetables:
carrots, onions, tomatoes and other such vegetables from South Africa. We must
make it our vision to produce these vegetables locally and supply to these
supermarkets.
“We have also invested in sugar production. As
many of you are aware, just a few months ago, I cut the sod for the
reconstruction of the Komenda Sugar Factory. And we are going to have an
out-grower system that will feed the factory with sugarcane and it is my hope
that when that factory starts working it should be able to produce 50% of the
sugar that we eat in this country,” he added.Mahama also said the Government is
investing the poultry industry to make it more vibrant and viable.
Cuba News:
"Vietnam Donates Five Thousand Tons of Rice to Cuba"
HAVANA, Cuba, Dec 6 (acn) Nguyen Huu Tri,
Deputy Finance Minister of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, announced the
donation of five thousand tons of rice to Cuba, on behalf of the people and
government of the Asian nation.The symbolic handover took place during a
ceremony held in the Hall of Protocol of the Ministry of Foreign Trade and
Foreign Investment, also attended by Odalys Escandel and Felix Martinez, deputy
Domestic Trade and Finance and Prices Ministers, respectively.
The Vietnamese leader recalled the historic
ties between the two countries, and said that his countrymen will not forget
the courage of the Cuban officers and sailors to transport necessary goods
during the war in his country.Huu Tri said that cooperation for rice production
in the Caribbean nation also includes 40 million dollars to boost efficiency
and yields in the cultivation of rice.Odalys Escandel conveyed the gratitude of
the people of the Caribbean island, and noted that Vietnam is an important
trading partner for Cuba.Since last December 2 the Vietnamese delegation
completes a busy schedule of work, including visits and exchanges of
experiences with Ministry of Finance and the National Institute of State
Reserve
SIGNING OF MOU
BOOSTS RICE PRODUCTION IN FIJI AGRICULTURE
SIGNING OF MOU BOOSTS
RICE PRODUCTION IN FIJI AGRICULTURE
DECEMBER 8, 2014
Caption:China Shandong
International Economic and Technical Operational Group Ltd.Photo:SUPPLIED.
A boost to the Rice
Revitalization Programme in Fiji was earmarked with a recent signing of a
memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the Republic of the Government of China
and the Fijian Government.The China Shandong International Economic and
Technical Cooperation Group Limited (CSI) in technical partnership with world
known hybrid rice seeds company, Yuan Longping High –Tech Agriculture Company
Limited will work together with the Ministry of Agriculture in producing more
rice locally.Ministry of Agriculture permanent secretary, Ropate Ligairi said
the event was a milestone achievement to a vast project targeting the rice
production in Fiji.
This commodity he said can be
kept for long after harvest and with the help of the new machineries and
technologies, all activities concerning rice cultivation will be effective and
efficient.Deputy manager for CSI, Wang Zenghe said within the agreement they
will bring their machines, experts to train local farmers and staff as well as
introducing new rice technology and high yield varieties.“We would like to see
that rice production in Fiji is taken to another level. Currently, the average
rice yield in Fiji is 2.5 tonnes per hectare. Through this project, they will
demonstrate and train farmers and officers on the technologies to achieve
higher yields from 5.0 to 8.0 tonnes per hectare or even more,” Mr Zenghe
said.The approved $10million rice project commences from January 2015 until
December 2016. The project identified operation areas are Dreketi Irrigation
Project for 200 ha of rice land for extension and one [1] ha at Koronivia
Research Station for rice seeds experiment and research.The Prime Minister’s
Office and the Ministry of Agriculture are both spearheading the project.
Arkansas Welcomes 2014 USA Rice Outlook Conference
Opening ceremony in Little Rock
(Steve Orlicek and Dow Brantley, second and
third from left)
"Arkansas is honored to host this year's
conference," said Brantley.
"The support we've gotten from sponsors and exhibitors is
overwhelming and we're excited to provide a venue for them to share their
expertise and innovations."
CEO Betsy Ward greets Governor-elect Hutchinson
The conference educational program kicked off
this morning with a host state welcome from Governor-Elect Asa Hutchinson who
lauded rice farmers for their sustainability efforts, emphasizing the
impressive gains rice farmers have made over the past twenty years in
conservation of resources such as land, water, and energy.
"The governor-elect is clearly plugged in
on rice issues and we look forward to working with his administration in the
future," said USA Rice President and CEO Betsy Ward.
Today's program included conference regulars
and favorites Jim Wiesemeyer on politics and Nathan Childs on crop outlook, as
well as a learning session on the Farm Bill and crop insurance options.
The afternoon program featured a panel
discussion on conservation opportunities available to growers led by former
Natural Resource Conservation Service Chief Dave White, an interactive session
on the Texas A&M Farm Bill decision tool led by Dr. Joe Outlaw, and
presentations by state research officials on developments and the outlook for
each state.
The USA Rice Outlook Conference is an
educational service of the USA Rice Federation.
Contact:
Deborah Willenborg (703) 236-1444
2014 Rice
Award Winners Recognized at Annual Awards Luncheon
Horizon Ag's Tim
Walker (r) congratulates
Fred Zaunbrecher
LITTLE ROCK, AR- - Winners of the 2014 Rice
Awards were announced today at a luncheon in their honor. Awards are presented in the categories of
farmer, industry and lifetime achievement.
This year's winners are Fred Zaunbrecher, farmer of the year, Kent
McKenzie, rice industry award winner and Marvin Baden, rice lifetime
achievement award winner.
Fred Zaunbrecher is a fifth generation rice
farmer from Duson, Louisiana who started helping out on the family farm when he
was only nine years old. Together with
his three brothers, Zaunbrecher operates GF&P Zaunbrecher Farms where they
grow 2,000 acres of rice. The
Zaunbrechers are known for their interest in innovation, utilization of new
technology, and collaboration with research scientists at the LSU AgCenter.
Zaunbrecher is a graduate of the Rice Leadership Development Class, and currently
serves as chairman of the USA Rice Council.
Rice Farming Editor Carroll Smith and
Kent McKenzie
Marvin "Butch" Baden is a well
deserving recipient of the Rice Lifetime Achievement award having worked in the
rice industry for 56 years. Starting out
as an office clerk, Baden eventually worked his way into a career in rice
sales. His particular expertise is in
the area of export sales and over the course of his career, he has logged over
eight million miles traveling the world selling rice. Baden was elected as a director on the
inaugural USA Rice Board of Directors and recently received the Rice Millers'
Association Distinguished Service Award.
Dow Brantley (l) and Marvin Barden
CME Group/Closing Rough Rice
Futures
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||
CME Group (Preliminary): Closing Rough Rice Futures for December 8
|
Dr. Argelia Lorence of Arkansas State University is
recognized for rice research
Dr. Argelia Lorence.
Dr. Lorince tells why she is interested in rice.
“Rice is a very important plant all over the world. In
terms of volume, rice is second only to wheat. It is important in
Arkansas because the state leads the nation in rice production. We also
have a competitive advantage in the state because we have the USDA Dale Bumpers
National Rice Research Center in Stuttgart, Arkansas. My laboratory
collaborates with the center and it is great opportunity because of where they
are located at.”
“Imaging technologies are relevant because for many of the
traits that are desirable for crops, we need to have good tools to detect the
plants that have the properties we want,” said Lorence. “These
technologies the Plant Imaging Consortium in supporting go beyond the capacity
of the human eyes. We have modern photographic tools that allow us to
capture a lot more of the information about plant performance under certain
conditions.”
She tells what she hopes will be the results of the research.“Our
intent is to learn a lot more about how these plants will respond to the
stresses with the intent of using that knowledge to really develop varieties
that are better suited for Arkansas and Missouri.”Dr. Argelia Lorence is one of
the Arkansas Research Alliance Fellows at Arkansas State University. More
information on Dr. Lorence can be found here.
The Arkansas Research Alliance
Fellows are Dr. Trace Peterson from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff,
Dr. Laura James from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Dr.
Alexandru Biris from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Dr. Alan
Mantooth from the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, and Dr. Argelia
Lorence from Arkansas State University.
Iran Stops Rice Imports
Iran Accounts for a Third of Indian Basmati Rice Exports
By BIMAN MUKHERJI And BENOÎT FAUCON
HONG KONG—Iran has clamped down on imports of rice to protect
the country’s farmers and reduce a stockpile, traders say, sending shivers
through Asia because the Middle East is one of the region’s biggest export
destinations.The move is especially painful for India, the world’s top rice
exporter, as it has stepped up …
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COLUMN:
Howard’s Health - ‘Be more Christmas cracker and less Christmas pudding this
year’
Jo
Most of us loosen our belt or our clothes feel like they have
been in the tumble dryer a little too long when the New Year rolls around.
We end up feeling less Christmas cracker and more Christmas
pudding, but it does not have to be that way this year.
By following a few easy steps we can feel happy about our
weight, our health and how we look. So here’s my Christmas tips to enjoy
yourself – and how you feel about yourself:
1) Prioritize. If you look forward to the Christmas chocolates,
desserts or pigs in blankets by all means blow your calories on them. It’s
about making conscious choices, not mindlessly munching .
2) Avoid going hungry to parties. Eat something light beforehand
to reduce your chances of snacking on high calorie party food. Some healthy
snacks include zero fat Greek yoghurt and strawberries, or a boiled egg and
thin sliced ham.
3) Focus. Have you ever had a full plate of food in front of
you, only to look down a few minutes later to find it gone? In all likelihood,
you ate while you were talking to someone or doing something else, like
watching TV, which leads to overeating. So try to really concentrate. Appreciate
how the food looks before you put it in your mouth.
4) Enjoy your food: Take the time to chew and identify the
flavours. Stop and savour between bites and you will eat less, without feeling
deprived.
5) Fill up with porridge, fruit, brown or basmati rice and pasta
which will keep you fuller, for longer.
6) And sleep! Proper sleep is a key factor in weight management.
On nights when you are not at a party until the early hours, turn in early. If
you are out late, try to have a power nap the next day when your energy flags,
instead of using a big snack to pick yourself up.
Don’t try to lose weight over the Christmas season. Instead, aim
to maintain your current weight and then when the New Year comes, you will be
in a really great position to reach your goals, whatever they are.
n Award-winning local diet coach John Howard understands how
hard it is to lose weight – and keep it off.
He lost 7 stone in five months – and eight years on has kept his
new shape.
Diet coach John Howard supports you one to one, from Eye, near
Diss, and from the Stowhealth GP centre in Stowmarket, to lose about a stone a
month and no longer be unhappy with your weight.
He can be contacted on 0787 231 4653, 01379 678416, or by email
at john@live-everyday.co.uk For more details: www.cambridgeweightplan.com/JohnH
Source with thanks:www.disexpress.com
Family Meals Matter: Comfort food
Mom’s Macaroni + Cheese
December 07, 2014 10:00 am •
When it’s cold outside or you’re not feeling well, there’s nothing
like comfort foods to warm you up and get you back on your feet. Pasta, stews,
meatloaf and more come to mind when it comes to foods we crave when we’re cold
or unwell.
Given that early December means low temperatures and seasonal cold
season, December 5 is an apt time to celebrate Comfort Food Day! While many
comfort food recipes can be high in fat and calories, simple swaps and well
planned combinations can help you fit comfort foods in your family’s healthy
eating pattern.
Comfort your colds and warm up with a featured family meal of
No-Bake Macaroni and Cheese, French Country Beef Stew and Lemon Dill Carrots.
Keep comfort foods on the menu all week long with other recipes like Rosemary
Oven Fried Chicken, Blue Ribbon Meatloaf, Cheesy Tuna Melts and Basmati Rice
Pudding with Oranges.
The SHOPPING LIST includes ingredients to make at least four
servings of each Featured Family Meal recipe.
NO-BAKE MACARONI + CHEESE
Total preparation time: 15 to 30 minutes
Actual cooking time: 15 to 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4
·
8 ounces whole-wheat elbow noodles, (2 cups)
·
1 10-ounce package frozen chopped broccoli
·
1 3/4 cups low-fat milk, divided
·
3 tablespoons flour
·
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
·
1/2 teaspoon salt
·
1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
·
3/4 cup shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese
·
1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
·
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Preparation:
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook pasta for 4 minutes.
Add frozen broccoli and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the
pasta and broccoli are just tender, 4 to 5 minutes more.
Meanwhile, heat 1 1/2 cups milk in another large pot over
medium-high heat until just simmering. Whisk the remaining 1/4 cup milk, flour,
garlic powder, salt and pepper in a small bowl until combined. Add the flour
mixture to the simmering milk; return to a simmer and cook, whisking
constantly, until the mixture is thickened, 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from the
heat and whisk in Cheddar, Parmesan and mustard until the cheese is melted.
Drain the pasta and broccoli and add to the cheese sauce. Return
to the heat and cook, stirring, over medium-low heat, until heated through,
about 1 minute.
Source: EatingWell
FRENCH COUNTRY BEEF STEW
Total preparation time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 8
Actual cooking time: More than 2 hours
·
2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
·
4 slices turkey bacon, coarsely chopped
·
1 1/2 cups finely chopped onion (2 medium)
·
1 1/2 cups diced carrots (2 medium)
·
1/2 cup diced celery (1 stalk)
·
3 cups reduced-sodium beef broth
·
2 cups dry red wine, such as merlot or zinfandel
·
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or 1/2 teaspoon dried
·
2 bay leaves
·
2 2 1/2-inch-long strips orange zest
·
3 1/2-3 3/4 pounds sliced beef shank, trimmed
·
Freshly ground pepper to taste
·
1/2 cup chopped watercress or parsley
Preparation:
1. Heat oil in a 4 to 5-quart Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add bacon and cook, stirring often, until lightly browned, 3 to 5 minutes. Add
onions, carrots and celery; cook, stirring often, until the vegetables are
softened and lightly browned, 8 to 10 minutes. Add broth, wine, thyme, bay
leaves and orange zest. Bring to a boil.
2. Rinse beef with cool water to remove any bone bits. Place the
beef in a 5 to 6-quart slow cooker and turn heat to high. Carefully pour the
hot vegetable mixture over the beef. Put the lid on and cook until the beef is
falling-apart tender when prodded with a fork, 6 to 7 hours.
3. Preheat oven to 350°F. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the
cooked beef to a bowl. Lift out the bones. Scoop marrow out and add to the meat,
if desired; discard bones. Break the meat into 2 to 3-inch chunks with a spoon.
Cover and keep warm.
4. Discard the bay leaves and orange zest from the sauce; skim
fat. Pour the sauce into a large skillet. Bring to a boil over high heat. Boil,
skimming froth from time to time, for about 20 minutes, to intensify flavors
and thicken slightly. Season with pepper. Add the beef and heat through. To
serve, ladle the stew into bowls and sprinkle with watercress (or parsley).
Baked Beef Stew variation:
Total: 4 1/4 hours
Preheat oven to 350°F.
In Step 1, use only 1 1/2 cups broth and 1 1/2 cups red wine.
In Step 2, place beef and vegetables in a Dutch oven, cover and
bake for 3 to 3 1/2 hours. Skim fat. Discard the bay leaves and orange zest.
Lift out the bones, scoop marrow and add, if desired; discard the bones. Break
the meat into chunks.
Blend 2 tablespoons cornstarch with 1/4 cup water; stir into the
stew. Return the pan to the oven and bake, uncovered, stirring occasionally,
until bubbling, 25 to 30 minutes.
COOK’S NOTES:
To Make Ahead: Cover and refrigerate for up to 2
days or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator, if necessary, and
reheat on the stovetop, in a microwave or in the oven.
Note: If you cannot find beef shank,
substitute cubed stewing beef.
Source: EatingWell
LEMON DILL CARROTS
Total preparation time: Less than 15 minutes
Number of servings: 8
Actual cooking time: Less than 15 minutes
·
8 medium-size carrots, scraped and diagonally sliced
·
1 teaspoon cornstarch
·
1 tablespoon lemon juice
·
1/3 cup water
·
1 teaspoon margarine
·
1/2 teaspoon dried dill
·
1/4 teaspoon grated lemon rind
·
1/8 teaspoon salt
·
Fresh dill sprigs (optional)
Preparation:
1. Arrange carrot in vegetable steamer over boiling water. Cover;
steam 2-3 minutes or until crisp-tender. Transfer carrot to a serving bowl and
keep warm.
2. Combine cornstarch and lemon juice in a small saucepan,
stirring until smooth. Add water; cook over medium heat, stirring constantly,
until thickened.
3. Stir in margarine and next 3 ingredients. Cook, stirring
constantly, until margarine melts.
4. Pour lemon juice mixture over carrots, and toss gently. Garnish
with dill sprigs, if desired.
Source: Maureen B.
OTHER FEATURED RECIPES
Rosemary Oven Fried Chicken
Blue Ribbon Meatloaf
Cheesy Tuna Melts
Basmati Rice Pudding with Oranges
“Family Meals Matter” features registered dietitian-approved
recipes with foods from all the food groups to reflect Dairy Council of
California’s nutrition philosophy. For more information, nutrition tools and
additional family meal recipes, please visit our new website,
HealthyEating.org. Healthy Eating Made Easier.
