CityNews – Chiang Mai University joined hand with Science and Technology Park to push forward the development of Lanna purple rice, aiming to improve and introduce the rice into economic system.
Science and Technology Park, Chiang Mai University (CMU STeP), in collaboration with the Faculty of Agriculture, Chiang Mai University has conducted research on Khao Kum Lanna, a new varieties of purple rice. This collaborative research is conducted under the Industrial Research and Technology Capacity Development Program (IRTC) which aims to advance the research using technologies and adding value to the Thai rice economic system, explained Asst. Prof. Dr. Tanyanuparb Anantana, Director of CMU STeP.
The is accomplished with three new varieties added to the local purple rice which contains more nutrients when compared to the popular jasmine rice (Khao Dawk Mali 105). According to Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chanakan Prom-u-thai, the researcher from Department of Plant Science and Natural Resource, Agronomy, Khao Kum Lanna is rich in iron, zinc and anthocyanin, with antioxidant which can help prevent heart disease, lower cholesterol and blood sugar, restrain the growth of gastric cancer and acid, and platelet aggregation.
The research has reportedly been distributed and currently used by over a hundred rice farmers. With support from CMU STeP, the farmers are able to use the UTD RF technology (Uniform Thermal Distribution of Radio Frequency) to prevent rice weevils instead of using chemical substances. This radio frequency technology also helps preserve rice for an extended time, adding value to the product.