In the '54th Rice Taste Ranking 2026' announced annually by the Japan Grain Inspection Association, Hitomebore rice from the southern part of the prefecture, where Oshu City is located, won its 24th 'Special A' rating.
[Japan Grain Inspection Association HP] https://www.kokken.or.jp/index.html [Oshu City Hometown Tax Special Site] https://www.city.oshu.iwate.jp/hurusato_tax/index.html
About the Taste Ranking The rice taste ranking is a system that evaluates rice based on its taste, conducted annually by the Japan Grain Inspection Association. This time, 144 varieties of rice from different production areas and cultivars across the country were evaluated. The evaluation method involves multiple expert judges who examine the rice's taste, aroma, and stickiness, and rate it on a five-point scale.
About Oshu City's Hitomebore Hitomebore has a moderate stickiness and softness, and is characterized by its well-defined grains when cooked. It has a good balance of sweetness and umami, and does not overpower any meal. Also, it does not harden easily when cooled and is less likely to become dry over time, making it suitable for bento boxes and rice balls, allowing you to enjoy its unchanging deliciousness even after some time has passed.
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FACT BOX
- Source: PR TIMES
- Category: Survey