Explanation of the structure of rice

In autumn, rice plants bear many grains of rice in their ears.

Once the rice is harvested, the grains are separated from the ears through threshing. Subsequently, the grains are further divided into husks and brown rice through hulling.

Please note that "ears" is a term commonly used to refer to the part of the rice plant that contains the grains.

 

Rice has the following structures in order from the outer layer:

Husk

The hard outer shell that protects the inner parts.

Bran

The outermost layer of brown rice, which is a tough, dark brown skin.

Seed coat

A thin film-like layer that envelops the endosperm and embryo bud.

 

Aleurone layer

The layer that covers the surface of the endosperm.

Endosperm

The main part of the rice grain. The endosperm is rich in starch, proteins, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. It also contains the embryo in its center, which is packed with nutrients necessary for the growth of a new plant.

 Embryo bud

The part that develops into the shoot and root.

Rice is composed of these structures, and it is typically provided in a polished state where the seed coat and aleurone layer are removed when consumed. However, there is also unpolished rice known as "brown rice" where the seed coat and aleurone layer remain, making it more nutritious.