A decrease in rice intake among young people might have long-term consequences for the country’s agriculture economy. The Department of Internal Trade (DIT) is currently urging the younger generation to eat more rice in order to sustain domestic rice demand in the long run.
According to DIT Deputy Director-General Udom Srisomsong, misinformation and lifestyle changes are the primary causes of decreased rice consumption. According to the DIT deputy head, rice consumption in the youthful demographic group fell from 100 kilograms per person per year in 2018 to 72 kilograms per person per year in 2019. Consumption in Bangkok has plummeted to barely 50 kilograms per person per year.
According to the DIT Deputy Director-General, this downward tendency might have long-term implications for the country’s rice market, which sees 10 million tons sold domestically and 7 million tons exported each year.
To address this issue, the DIT has partnered with the Thai Rice Packers Association to promote the advantages of rice. Consuming rice as part of a balanced and healthful diet will not result in weight gain.
As part of this campaign, many roadshow events will be organized at schools in the Greater Bangkok Area, as well as rice cooking demos to promote new types of Thai grains, such as the famous Riceberry rice, which is high in antioxidants.
