Chungcheongnam-do Rice Quality Contest Underway

The Chungcheongnam-do Provincial Agricultural Research and Extension Services is currently accepting applications for the ‘4th Chungcheongnam-do Excellent Quality Control Brand Rice’ contest, running until March 11th. The competition aims to identify and recognize the highest quality rice brands produced within the province, including the Chungcheongnam-do brand ‘Cheongpung Myeongwol Gold’.

Eligibility and Application Criteria

Rice brands representing each city and county in Chungcheongnam-do are eligible to participate. Applicants must adhere to specific criteria, including the leverage of a single rice variety and demonstrate a production complex of at least 50 hectares.

Enhanced Transparency in Quality Assessment

To ensure fairness and transparency, the Chungcheongnam-do Provincial Agricultural Research Institute is employing a rigorous evaluation process. Researchers will purchase and analyze rice products currently available in supermarkets three times a year – in March, July, and November – rather than relying solely on samples submitted by companies. This approach aims to verify consistent quality throughout all seasons.

Comprehensive Analysis Parameters

The evaluation process encompasses a detailed analysis of several key factors, including:

• Appearance Quality: Percentage of whole grains.
• Nutritional Content: Protein and moisture content.
• Cooking Quality: Taste assessment conducted by a panel of tasters.
• Variety Purity: Genetic (DNA) analysis to confirm varietal integrity.

Selection Process and Awards

A ‘Quality Management Excellent Brand Rice Selection Committee,’ comprised of public officials, agricultural cooperative representatives, and farmers’ organization officials, will conduct an in-depth review of the analysis results. Three final brands will be selected and awarded a commendation from the governor during the year-end performance report.

Previous Winners

In the previous evaluation, Nonsan City’s ‘Army Sergeant’s Rice’ secured the grand prize. Dangjin City’s ‘Dangjin Haenaru Rice’ received the ‘best’ award, and Asan City’s ‘Asan Clear Rice’ was recognized with an ‘excellent’ rating.

Call for Participation

Kim Hak-heon, director of research and development, encourages active participation from producers and brand operators throughout the province. Applications can be submitted through the Rice Research Team of the Crop Management Research Department at the Urban and Rural Development Institute or via each city/county agricultural technology center by March 11th.

For more information about the Chungcheongnam-do Agricultural Research & Extension Services and their initiatives, visit their website: https://cnnongup.chungnam.go.kr/eng/main.cs