The Japanese government is selling stockpiled rice to control rising prices, sparking interest in its quality. A food scientist taste-tested rice from 2024, 2022, and 2020, finding that while older rice may be drier and lose luster, it is still edible and not significantly different in taste. A rice cooker manufacturer advises adding more water when cooking older rice and avoiding vigorous washing to prevent cracking.
by SkyInJapan