Rice bran is removed from rice kernels through a process called whitening or polishing.
Methods of Rice Bran Removal
The process of removing the bran layer from rice involves specialized machinery. Here's a breakdown of the methods:
- Abrasive Polishers: These machines use abrasive materials to gently scrub away the bran layer.
- Friction Polishers: These utilize friction between rice kernels and the machine's components to remove the bran.
Key Points About Bran Removal
- Amount Removed: Typically, the process removes between 8 and 10% of the total paddy weight.
- Goal: The objective is to remove the bran layer, which includes the pericarp and aleurone layers, revealing the white endosperm of the rice kernel.
Table: Rice Bran Removal Process
| Process | Mechanism | Bran Removal Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Abrasive Polishing | Uses abrasive materials to scrub off bran. | 8-10% of paddy weight |
| Friction Polishing | Uses friction to remove the bran. | 8-10% of paddy weight |
Removing rice bran is an essential part of processing rice, which significantly alters the appearance and texture of the final product. By utilizing either abrasive or friction polishers, processors can efficiently remove the bran, resulting in white rice.
