Full-scale Launch of Powdered Rice Processed Foods Made from Rice, Including 'Ramen, Dumplings, and Beverages'

The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs announced on the 27th that various new powdered rice products such as ramen, dumplings, and beverages developed by food and dining companies will be officially launched through the 'Powdered Rice Product Package Support Project.'

An official from the Ministry explained, "Powdered rice is a rice variety with a loose starch structure, making it suitable for powder production," adding, "It is a new food ingredient that can be used in various fields such as noodle making, confectionery, and baking."

To resolve the oversupply of rice and reduce dependence on imported wheat, the government has been supporting product development using powdered rice since last year. This year, 30 companies including Nongshim, Samyang, Pizza Alvolo, and London Bagel are participating in the project and will launch products using domestically produced new powdered rice within the year.

Nongshim's 'Byeolmi Bokkeummyeon' (left), made from rice flour, and Shinsegae Food's rice beverage 'Rice Based'.

Highlighting the chewy texture of powdered rice, Nongshim has released steamed chicken-flavored stir-fried noodles, Harim Industry launched children's ramen, and London Bagel introduced red bean paste bagels. Pizza Alvolo plans to release pizza dough containing powdered rice in July, and CJ CheilJedang plans to launch dumplings. Additionally, leveraging the advantage that powdered rice absorbs less oil, making it healthier and crispier, Sajo Dongawon has released batter and frying powder, and Samyang Foods is developing frozen fried dumplings and chicken. Nonghyup Foods will release gluten-free snacks, and Shinsegae Food plans to launch vegan beverages in July. The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs expects to see a variety of rice-processed foods in the second half of the year.

Park Su-jin, Director of the Food Policy Office at the Ministry, stated, "The government plans to continue comprehensive support including establishing a stable raw material production base, product development, and market expansion," urging food companies to actively develop products.

Meanwhile, the Ministry is promoting the creation of a powdered rice industry ecosystem by supporting product development, spreading processing technology, and expanding cultivation areas. The government has recruited 135 specialized powdered rice production complexes, an increase of 97 from last year, and plans to support stable production through water management and pest control until the harvest season in October.