Last Updated: 26 July 2022

 

                     Synchrotron Light Research Institute (SLRI) under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation collaborated with Highland Research and Development Institute (HRDI) in applying synchrotron light to analyze nutritional value of “highland rice” at molecular level. The results showed that some species contained high amount of iron and zinc while some were rich in “phenolics” and “flavonoids” with more than 20 times of antioxidant activity comparing to other species. The findings will lead to development of highland rice as a superfood as a novel alternative for customers which can generate income for highland ethnic farmers.

 

                 

                         “Highland rice” is cultivated by ethnic groups in highland areas of Thailand. According to HRDI’s data, more than 300 highland rice species exist. Each one has unique seed appearance, texture, and flavor. Highland rice is called differently by ethnic groups such as “Bue” by the Karen, “Haao” by the Lawa, “Blae” by the Hmong, “Ja” or “Jaa” by the Li-saw, “Shae” by the Akha, etc.

 

from left to right: Dr. Nichada Jearanaikoon, Dr. Ratchadaporn Supruangnet, 

Dr. Waraporn Tanthanuch, and Dr. Somchai Tancharakorn

 

                        Headed by Dr. Somchai Tancharakorn, SLRI scientists namely Dr. Waraporn Tanthanuch, Dr. Nichada Jearanaikoon, and Dr. Ratchadaporn Supruangnet worked with Dr. Janjira Roungjaroen of HRDI to select 20 highland rice species for classification and searching for superfood characteristics by applying synchrotron light technology. With this technology, the scientists can quickly select and classify highland rice species based on their biochemical components and molecular structures.

 

The Janunene highland rice

 

                       Dr. Somchai Tancharakorn stated that, “The test of rice samples applying synchrotron light can be done directly to the samples. There is no need to extract rice important components with chemicals. Moreover, errors on sample preparation are less. By this technology, more accurate effectiveness of classification with less time-consuming can be done. In general, classification mainly based on physical characteristics of rice.

              The analysis results showed that highland rice contained various vitamins, minerals, high antioxidants, and phytonutrients essential to human body. Some species such as Blaejao of Hmong ethnic group, Jakunene of Li-saw, and Mockoc of Lawa contained more unsaturated fatty acids than others did. Unsaturated fatty acid is known for its ability to reduce Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) in blood.

 

The Jakunene highland rice

 

                   The scientists found that of all the analyzed species, Akha’s Shaekwo, Hmong’s Blaejao, and Karen’s Buemuepho contained highest amount of iron and zinc, comparing to other species. Iron and zinc appeared in a form of organic components which are easily absorbed and effective of use. More importantly, the Janunene, Jakunene, and one unidentified species with red grains contained highest phenolics and flavonoids which are 5 times higher than found in other species. The antioxidant activities found in these three species were at 20 times higher comparing other species.    

 

Dr. Janjira Roungjaroen

 

                      Dr. Janjira Roungjaroen mentioned that “This research is a preliminary study and hundreds of highland rice species are being studied. The research results will be used as a database of genetic diversity of highland rice species grown in highland areas, Thailand which benefits selection of “superfood” species for consumers. The results will enhance in sustainably increasing of income for ethnic groups.”  

 

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
•  

 

Photo Credit: Highland Research and Development Institute (Public Organization)

 

Article by:

Dr. Somchai Tancharakorn, Beamline Manager, SLRI   Dr. Janjira Roungjaroen, Scientist, HRDI

Dr. Waraporn Tanthanuch, Beamline Scientist, SLRI   Ms. Kallayanee Abking, Administrative Officer (Science Communication), SLRI