What is golden rice?

Golden rice is a form of rice with the biosynthesis of vitamin A.

It is produced by genetic engineering. Beta-carotene, gives the golden colour to the rice. Carotenoids are found in vegetables like broccoli, tomatoes, carrot and sweet potatoes. Golden rice is also called "Miracle rice".

So why rice?

Rice is a staple food for half of our world's population.

What are the benefits of Golden rice?

Golden rice is easily digestible by our digestive system. The natural lipids in golden rice aid absorption of beta-carotene.

Golden rice was invented by Peter Beyer in 1999. He was a professor at the German university in Freiburg.

Golden rice is a fortified food used to combat vitamin A deficiency. Children are more vulnerable to vitamin A deficiency. Vitamin A deficiency can affect a person's eye sight and his or her immune system.

Golden rice, has the ability to lower your risks of cancer, infection and blindness. It has the ability to reduce gastrointestinal distress and support easy digestion.

It is a low fat and low sodium food. High levels of sodium, can lead to edema. Golden rice is beneficial for high cholesterol and high blood pressure.

This miracle rice, could save the life of millions. However, more research is needed, to understand the pros and cons of golden rice.