Previously, rice was sold in a “traditional” manner where it would be displayed in large bins. The seller would scoop out the required amount of rice into a bag and weigh it. Nowadays, in addition to this selling method, rice is also pre-packaged in bags of 1kg, 2kg, 5kg, and 10kg, with the packaging clearly stating the weight, rice variety, and origin.
So, is it better to buy rice by weight or pre-packaged?
In reality, each type of rice has its own advantages and disadvantages. Knowing this, you can choose the most suitable type of rice for yourself.
Pre-packaged rice
Currently, there are many pre-packaged rice products available for purchase. With this type, consumers can easily identify the brand of the manufacturer through the information printed on the packaging. Typically, consumers feel more reassured when the product clearly states its origin in this way.
Pre-packaged rice products must meet food safety standards, production processes, etc. Customers also avoid the inconvenience of inaccurate weighing compared to purchasing by weight.
Packaging rice in different weights is also convenient for consumers to choose the appropriate amount of rice for their usage needs. For example, families with few members or individuals living alone can choose packaged rice weighing 1-2kg, while larger families should choose packaged rice weighing 5-10kg.

Non-packaged rice
Non-packaged rice is sold by weight at stores, markets, etc. These types of rice are usually stored in large bags or bins and often only have the name of the rice without clear information on origin or brand. Without experience, buyers will find it difficult to determine what type of rice it is. All information about the rice can only be known through the seller’s words.
However, with this type of rice, customers can fully inspect the quality of the product through visual examination, smell, and taste. When needing to buy a small quantity of rice, this is also a suitable method of purchasing.
Therefore, whether to buy rice by weight or pre-packaged depends on the buyer’s consideration of their needs. In terms of safety, pre-packaged rice has an advantage. Pre-packaged rice with clear information helps buyers to know what they need to know about the product. Rice sealed in bags, even vacuum-sealed, can avoid the effects of moisture, limit pests and mold. Those who are skilled in choosing rice can choose to buy rice by weight at stores as the price of the product here is usually lower and they can directly inspect the quality of the rice.
Some notes when buying rice
– Check the color of the rice
To avoid buying old rice, you can inspect the color of the rice grains. Regular rice will have a pale white color, depending on the growth conditions and rice variety, the white color can be translucent or dull.
If the rice has a darker color, or even slightly yellow or faded (not including parboiled rice), it indicates that it is old rice. On the other hand, pure white, shiny rice may have been bleached.
– Check the smell of the rice
Rice should have a natural fragrance, especially newly harvested rice. Rice without a natural fragrance or with a strong odor is usually old rice or rice seasoned with artificial fragrance. This type of rice will lose its aroma when cooked.
When buying, you can take a few raw grains of rice and place them on your palm, then heat them up by rubbing them. If you smell a pleasant fragrance, it indicates good quality rice. If the rice has no fragrance or emits an unpleasant odor, it is old rice and does not guarantee quality.
– Taste the rice grains