Rice is not just for food

MANILA, Philippines - Rice scents, anyone?   

With inspiration from modern expensive scents in the market, the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) haSadded more value to rice by creating its line of scents that are environment-friendly and non-allergenic.

Available in 20 feminine, masculine, and unisex fragrances, the rice perfumes are produced using semi-organic materials that include glutinous rice – the type of rice used as raw material for rice wine, in which the perfume’s alcohol is extracted.

“Our rice perfume is made from 70 percent semi-organic materials. No chemicals and other synthetic additives were added to the alcohol. Thus the “naked” scents, are environment-friendly and do not cause allergies,” microbiologist Jeremiah Joy Quilang said.

Meanwhile, marketing officer Chona Suner-Narvadez said that the scents, identified through colors, are considered “naked” as they are yet to be branded and labeled. Bottled in 4, 8, 12, and 35 ml, perfumes are priced from P40 to P145 and could be bought in dab on, roll on, and spray forms.

“The availability of the scents in various sizes and packaging types are appreciated by customers because they visit our office to buy, sometimes, in bulk,” she said.

Narvadez said that the rice scents are perfect to give and receive as they come with individual boxes and are produced every cycle, ensuring that “there’s always something new for everyone.”

Perfect for all occasions, the scents range from light, floral, clean, and classic to modern, romantic, sexy, and mysterious.

“This wide range of scents captures the interest of spontaneous and on-the-go men and women as our perfume could be used for everyday casual wear or for more formal occasions requiring richer, bolder scents,” she said.  

Blended and bottled at PhilRice Central Experiment Station in Maligaya, Science City of Muñoz, the rice perfumes can be made to order, depending on the requirement of the customers. Refills are also available for P3 per ml.

Narvadez added that prospective buyers may order in bulk at a week’s notice through (044)456-0645.