Many people still do not know what the small grains on the rice scoop are used for

Rice is typically milled to remove the outer husk, leaving behind the edible grain. During this process, some rice grains inevitably break due to friction or rough handling. While the majority of rice is usually in whole or nearly-whole form, it’s nearly impossible to completely avoid these small broken pieces. These broken grains may be smaller than the whole grains, but they still hold nutritional value.

Broken rice is sometimes intentionally packaged or sold separately for certain dishes, as it has unique cooking properties and can be more affordable. It’s important to note that broken grains are not a sign of poor quality rice—they’re a natural byproduct of the milling process and can actually be just as flavorful as the whole grains.

The Purpose of Broken Rice Grains
You might be wondering why the rice scoop is designed with these small grains sticking to it in the first place. Here’s the deal:

Quality Control: The presence of small grains or fragments is often a natural outcome of rice processing, but it doesn’t necessarily mean the rice is of poor quality. Some rice brands and varieties naturally produce more broken grains than others. In some cases, high-quality rice is separated from broken grains, and you’ll find only whole grains in the packaging. But if you happen to see these tiny pieces, know they’re still perfectly fine for consumption.
Better Cooking for Specific Dishes: In many cuisines, broken rice is actually preferred for certain dishes like rice puddings, porridge, or rice flour. These smaller pieces cook more quickly and absorb flavors more evenly than larger grains, making them ideal for specific recipes. When you’re cooking a dish that requires a softer, stickier consistency, broken grains can be a great option.
Cost-Effective: Often, broken rice grains are sold separately at a lower price than whole rice grains. This makes them a budget-friendly option for cooking, especially when you’re preparing a large quantity or using rice for dishes that don’t require the rice to maintain a perfect, separate grain shape.