Rice, an edible starchy cereal grain, is one of the most important food crops globally, serving as a staple for over half of the world's population, particularly in Asia and Africa. Derived from the grass species Oryza sativa (Asian rice) or, less commonly, Oryza glaberrima (African rice), it has been cultivated for thousands of years and is deeply embedded in numerous cultures worldwide. Varieties range widely in characteristics such as grain length (short, medium, or long-grained), color, stickiness, and aroma, with examples like the fluffy long-grain Basmati, the aromatic Jasmine, and the sticky short-grain sushi rice. Rice is typically cooked by boiling and can be consumed alone, as a side dish, or incorporated into a vast array of cuisines, from risottos and curries to desserts and even alcoholic beverages like sake. Its versatility and nutritional value, primarily as a source of carbohydrates, make it an indispensable part of global food security.