IR 8 Rice

Features:
IR 8 rice grains are medium-sized, non-aromatic, and have a firm texture when cooked. The grains are slightly larger and heavier compared to IR 64. It has a mild flavor and tends to be a bit more starchy, making it ideal for bulk cooking. Its texture is firmer than that of IR 64, especially after cooking

Usage:
IR 8 is mainly used in everyday meals, especially in large-scale production settings like school meal programs, food relief efforts, and low-cost meals. It is also used for making rice-based processed foods like snacks and flours

Popularity:
IR 8 is highly regarded in countries such as the Philippines, Indonesia, and parts of Africa for its reliability in large-scale agriculture and feeding programs. It is valued for its high yield and consistency

Price:
Like IR 64, IR 8 is also an affordable rice variety, though slightly cheaper due to its widespread availability and older standing in the market

Similar Varieties:
Comparable varieties include IR 64 and PR 106, both of which share similar characteristics in terms of grain size and usage but differ slightly in texture and flavor

- Grain Size and Texture:
IR 8 has slightly larger and firmer grains, while IR 64 grains are softer when cooked and a bit smaller

- Flavor:
Both varieties have a neutral flavor, but IR 64 tends to be slightly less starchy and more delicate in texture

- Usage:
Both are used for everyday meals, but IR 8 is more commonly used in bulk cooking and industrial food production, while IR 64 is slightly more versatile for household use and catering

- Price:
IR 8 is often cheaper due to its older reputation and mass production, while IR 64, although still affordable, is priced slightly higher due to its somewhat improved quality and adaptability

- Regions:
IR 8 is more popular in Southeast Asia, whereas IR 64 is more widely used across India, Africa, and the Middle East