Guidelines for Adding Value to Parboiled Germinated Rice by the Ban Lao Subdistrict Rice Farmers Community Enterprise, Charoen Sin District, Sakon Nakhon Province.

Abstract

            Khao Hang (Parboiled Germinated Rice) is a milled brown rice, produced by subjecting paddy rice to soaking, steaming, and drying processes prior to milling. It is a well-known community product of Sakon Nakhon Province. However, most local entrepreneurs produce and market Khao Hang solely in its milled form, resulting in high competition among producers. This study, therefore, aims to explore strategies for adding value to Khao Hang produced by the Ban Lao Subdistrict Rice Growers Community Enterprise. The research began with: (1) an examination of the community context, production conditions, and marketing of Khao Hang using the Rapid Rural Appraisal (RRA) technique, and (2) a study of value-adding approaches through the Appreciation-Influence-Control (AIC) technique. The study was conducted from October 2023 to March 2024. The results revealed that 1) the Ban Lao Subdistrict Community Enterprise comprises 40 members who collectively cultivate 525 rai of rice fields. The group produces Khao Hang four times a year, yielding approximately 2,150 kilograms annually. Distribution is primarily conducted through the enterprise’s office, with secondary channels including trade fairs and telephone orders. 2) The value-addition strategies for Khao Hang that can be developed and implemented within one year consist of two main approaches: (2.1) Adding value through product development, which includes two sub-strategies: (a) Enhancing knowledge related to Khao Hang processing, and (b) Improving Khao Hang processing methods, packaging, and branding. (2.2) Adding value through digital marketing development, aimed at expanding market reach and increasing competitiveness.