Dinorado, sinandomeng, and other varieties in the market may soon have a healthier form as the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) is developing a new rice variant that could lower the risk of developing diabetes, as well as lessen the demand for unlimited rice strategies in food establishments.

The institute recently shared a new variety called the ultra-low glycemic index (GI) rice, which is said to bring healthier benefits and boost farmers’ productivity with its yield.

In a recent discussion with IRRI scientists at Los Baños, Laguna, Rhowell Tiozon, a rice researcher said that this current study is expected to appeal to the market which would drive the domestic demand for this variety when released to farmers and traders.

“The ultra-low GI has the same [planting] requirements, fertilizers, etc… Ideally, it should not change or increase the price in the market,” he told reporters. “But it would increase the demand when farmers begin selling this to consumers because of the health benefits for diabetic people.”

Associate scientist Reuben James Buenafe explained that they plan to replace existing rice in the market after extensive research and testing.

“We plan to convert any rice varieties into low GI; one that provides a higher yield for farmers, a good texture for consumers, and a better nutritional value,” he said.

According to the Department of Agriculture (DA), the recent price for imported well-milled and regular-milled rice as of late March is at P53 and P49.46 respectively.

Locally well-milled rice stands at P52, while regular domestic milled rice is at P49.66.

“The low and ultra-low GIs are already endorsed for multi-locational trial testing, so we’re testing the yield efficiency in different local areas,” Buenafe added.

As the new variety is being pushed for development, scientists are waiting for the next step, which is marketing the ultra-low GI rice into a product.

Once released for public consumption, diabetes, which is one of the leading and fatal conditions in the country, would decrease. Furthermore, Tiozon also said this could change how Filipinos perceive unlimited rice in establishments.

He explained that the common rice varieties sold in the market have a higher glycemic index that spikes blood sugar, which is why unli-rice or excessive rice consumption would negatively affect the glucose levels of Filipinos which would make them more at risk of diseases.

“If the food has a lower glycemic index and higher protein, the body’s insulin will have a slower response and will have a sense of fulfillment,” Tiozon shared. “This would lessen the need for unli-rice, because you’re already satisfied after eating rice with a lower GI.”

At this rate of development, scientists also expect that farmers will receive the new rice varieties by 2025.