Rice farmers have a story to tell about sustainability and innovation. Founded in 1937 in the northern Sacramento Valley of California, Lundberg Family Farms pledged to leave the land better than he found it and to learn from previous generations. The company, now run by third and fourth generation Lundbergs, recently launched its regenerative certified organic white basmati rice. Bryce Lundberg, whose great-grandfather founded the farm, joins us to discuss rice, regeneration and baby ducks. Under the family’s leadership, the company has built a network of approximately 40 farms and partners who grow, grind and distribute 107 certified organic non-GMO products while preserving soil health and embracing renewable energy and aggressive practices. recycling and reuse. Lundberg Family Farms recycles 99.7% of its business waste and explores sustainable packaging options. We will explore the evolution of organic and regenerative certifications and how a food staple like rice can be delivered sustainably with a circular approach to packaging.
Brown, red or other colored rice is more nutritious than white rice because it contains more iron, zinc, copper, manganese and selenium. Lundberg Family Farms primarily grows brown rice, unmilled brown rice left in the field longer to enhance its flavor and nutritional benefits. Surprisingly, most of the rice consumed around the world is a white variety that has been ground and polished. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, the United States grows about 10.7 million tons of rice annually. In California, approximately 500,000 acres are planted with rice each year. As California grapples with drought and flooding this year following record winter snowfall, rice cultivation, which involves flooding fields late in the season, will need to make better use of the ‘water. At a time when their almond-growing neighbors are chopping down trees, the Lundbergs face challenges that many farmers will face during the climate crisis.
You can learn more about Lundberg Family Farms at lundberg.com.
