LOS BAÑOS, Laguna. In a bid to address the escalating diabetes cases worldwide, researchers from the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), a CGIAR Research Center, have unveiled the genes responsible for low and ultra-low glycemic index (GI) in rice. This groundbreaking discovery offers the potential to transform widely consumed rice varieties into low and ultra-low GI options for refined white rice, using conventional breeding techniques. This development maintains grain quality and ensures high yields.
During the opening ceremony of the 6th International Rice Congress, the initial batch of ultra-low GI rice samples derived from the Samba Mahsuri x IR36ae crossbreed was formally presented to Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.
Expressing gratitude for the congress, Marcos emphasized the significance of advancements like ultra-low GI rice in promoting rice industry development globally and particularly in the Philippines.
Previously, IRRI had identified two low GI Philippine varieties, IRRI 147 and IRRI 125, which were released in the Philippines as salt-tolerant options. Clinical studies showed that IRRI 147 had a GI value of 55, while IRRI 125 had a GI value of 51.1.
With diabetes reaching epidemic proportions, the necessity for healthier food options is paramount. Many commonly cultivated rice varieties have high GI levels, ranging from 70 to 92, which is concerning for individuals with diabetes.
IRRI categorizes GI levels as ultra-low below 45, low between 46 and 55, intermediate from 56 to 69, and high at 70 and above. The newly discovered ultra-low GI rice boasts a GI level of 44, with translucent grains.
In 2019, IRRI identified significant marker-trait associations for distinguishing between intermediate and high GI varieties. Now, IRRI has defined the genetics for low and ultra-low GI rice, developing pre-breeding lines with these characteristics in high-yielding backgrounds.
Dr. Nese Sreenivasulu, Head of IRRI’s Consumer-driven Grain Quality and Nutrition Research Unit, highlighted the opportunity this discovery presents to develop rice varieties that meet consumer health needs and preferences.
The breakthrough stems from collaborative efforts between IRRI scientists at the global headquarters in the Philippines and the IRRI South Asia Regional Centre in India. India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the latter with the goal of fostering research partnerships across regions.
Dr. Leo Sebastian, Undersecretary for Rice Industry Development at the Department of Agriculture, expressed support for further research on low GI rice and its potential incorporation into Philippine varieties.
IRRI’s Interim Director General, Dr. Ajay Kohli, emphasized the health benefits and market potential of these research breakthroughs. Collaborative efforts between IRRI and PhilRice aim to make ultra-low GI rice varieties available in the market within two years.
Si Venus L Peñaflor ay naging editor-in-chief ng Newsworld, isang lokal na pahayagan ng Laguna. Publisher din siya ng Daystar Gazette at Tutubi News Magazine. Siya ay isa ring pintor at doll face designer ng Ninay Dolls, ang unang Manikang Pilipino. Kasali siya sa DesignCrowd sa rank na #305 sa 640,000 graphic designers sa buong daigdig. Kasama din siya sa unang Local TV Broadcast sa Laguna na Beyond Manila. Aktibong kasapi siya ng San Pablo Jaycees Senate bilang isang JCI Senator.
