Experts emphasize that the crucial step in brown rice oil production is processing and extracting the bran layer immediately after separating it from the rice grain to preserve maximum nutrients. This means successful brown rice oil production relies heavily on the source and timely supply of raw materials. Vietnam's advantage lies in its abundant domestic supply, eliminating the need for imports.

The bran layer - where most of the nutrients of brown rice are found. Photo: Simply

The bran layer - where most of the nutrients of brown rice are found. Photo: Simply

Calofic Co., Ltd., a company with years of experience producing brown rice oil under the Simply brand, explains that the longer the rice bran is stored, the lower the quality of the oil, affecting the final product. Therefore, prompt processing after harvest is essential.

Immediately after separation, the rice bran undergoes rapid heat treatment to deactivate enzymes that can negatively impact quality. The oil is then extracted at a temperature of about 55-58 degrees Celsius.

The crude oil is neutralized to remove free fatty acids, stabilizing quality and preserving Gamma Oryzanol, a potent antioxidant abundant in rice bran. A seven-step refining process follows in a vacuum environment, under strict technical supervision. Each stage has specific evaluation criteria, with some steps checked every 4 hours to ensure quality. "Simply's pure brown rice oil production leverages Vietnam's rich rice fields and modern extraction technology," a company representative said.

Producing brown rice oil requires advanced extraction technology, which not all companies possess. According to the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), building a brown rice oil extraction facility in the US can exceed 10 million USD, a significant barrier for small and medium-sized enterprises.

Many countries lack these two conditions, resulting in high prices for imported brown rice oil. However, consumers in these markets are willing to pay, recognizing its health benefits.

Bich Tram, 38, a former resident of Japan, shared that brown rice oil is known there as 'heart oil' for its cardiovascular benefits and is widely used. Upon returning to Vietnam, she continued using brown rice oil, choosing Simply, a 100% pure brown rice oil, surprised to find it priced at about one-third the cost in Japan. "For me, it's a healthy and affordable choice," Tram said.

Simply brown rice oil in a Vietnamese kitchen. Photo: Simply

Simply brown rice oil in a Vietnamese kitchen. Photo: Simply

Globally, brown rice oil is gaining popularity. Market Research Future reports that the global brown rice oil industry is projected to grow by over 67% by 2030, reflecting its rising popularity and potential, driven by its cardiovascular benefits.

Its balanced fatty acid profile and rich nutrients have led to recommendations from numerous national heart associations, the World Health Organization (WHO), and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for heart-healthy diets. Scientific literature highlights its value, derived from the bran layer, a concentrated source of vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats.

This oil also contains a significant amount of Gamma Oryzanol, beneficial for cardiovascular health. Gamma Oryzanol helps lower bad cholesterol and prevents plaque buildup in artery walls, a silent contributor to stroke, heart attack, and other heart diseases.

According to Calofic, Vietnam's abundant resources and mastery of modern extraction technology enable manufacturers to offer these products at competitive prices compared to imported oils.

Hoang Anh