ISO 7301:2021/Amd 1:2024

Overview

ISO 7301:2021/Amd 1:2024 is the latest amendment to the international standard specifying the quality and classification requirements for rice. Developed by ISO/TC 34, Food Products, Subcommittee SC 4 on Cereals and Pulses, in collaboration with the European Committee for Standardization (CEN/TC 338), this amendment updates terminology and quality specifications related to rice processing and grading. The amendment clarifies crucial definitions regarding rice milling degrees and sets detailed requirements for classification to support consistent international trade and quality assurance.

Key Topics

• Rice Milling Classifications
  The amendment introduces precise terms related to rice milling:

  • Semi-milled rice (Riz demi-usiné): Rice processed by milling dehulled rice, removing part of the bran and part of the germ.
  • Well-milled rice (Riz bien usiné): Rice milled such that most of the bran and germ are removed.
  • Highly milled rice (Riz très bien usiné): Rice milled so that all bran and germ have been completely removed.
    These classifications help define the degree of milling based on the fraction of bran and germ removed, facilitating quality control and product differentiation.

• Quality Tolerances
  The amendment specifies tolerance limits for grains containing traces of germ in sample aliquots, with a maximum allowed content of less than 0.5% in 100 g samples. This level of detail ensures consistent quality assessment and enhances consumer confidence.

• Aroma Specifications
  It clarifies that the specific aroma characteristic of rice must arise naturally from the rice itself without addition of any external substances post-harvest. This protects product authenticity and supports accurate sensory evaluation.

• Labeling and Specification Requirements
  The amendment adds requirements for specifying the degree of milling on product labels, providing traceable quality information. This includes mandatory definitions for the degree of milling (e.g., semi-milled, well-milled, or highly milled) with corresponding mass fraction tolerances.

Applications

ISO 7301:2021/Amd 1:2024 is a critical standard for:

• Rice Producers and Processors
  Ensuring milling processes meet internationally recognized quality benchmarks, facilitating product consistency and compliance with market requirements.

• Quality Control Laboratories
  Providing clear terminology and measurement criteria for assessing rice degree of milling and germ content, aiding in compliance testing and certification.

• Food Importers and Exporters
  Using standardized rice specifications to harmonize trade practices, reduce disputes, and ensure products meet importing country regulations.

• Regulatory Bodies
  Referencing this standard to establish national food safety and quality regulations related to rice grading and labeling.

• Retailers and Consumers
  Benefiting from transparent product information regarding rice milling degree and natural aroma, helping in making informed purchasing decisions.

Related Standards

• ISO/TC 34 – Food Products Series
  Includes various standards on cereals and legumes that complement rice quality specifics, such as sampling and testing methods.

• CEN/TC 338 Food standards
  European standards harmonized with ISO 7301 for cereals and cereal products, enhancing cross-border regulatory alignment.

• ISO 665 – Rice Determination of Moisture Content
  Methodology closely related to rice quality specification, essential for ensuring product stability and shelf life.

• ISO 7971 – Rice Grain Size and Shape Measurement
  Supports classification and grading processes alongside ISO 7301 definitions.

This amendment to ISO 7301 reinforces global best practices for rice specification, milling classification, and quality assurance. It is a valuable tool for stakeholders across the rice production, trade, and regulatory spectrum aiming to ensure product integrity, consumer trust, and market transparency. For more information, visit the official ISO website.