New Domestic Aromatic Rice Variety Will Launch in 2027
U.S. growers will soon have a new domestic option for aromatic rice intended to compete with international imports.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Organic Food
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The U.S. Department of Agriculture and the University of Arkansas have developed a new aromatic rice variety called Sallah, scheduled for commercial availability in 2027. This new option aims to offer domestic farmers an alternative for the aromatic rice market.
Why it matters
The introduction of this variety provides U.S. growers with an additional choice in a market currently dominated by international imports. By increasing domestic supply, it may shift the competitive landscape for fragrant rice options available to consumers.
Developed as a cross between Jasmine 85 and Lemont, this aromatic variety is characterized as a mid-season crop with slender, translucent grains and low chalkiness. Its performance and market share relative to imported fragrant rice remain under future evaluation.
The players
U.S. Department of Agriculture
A federal agency that oversees agricultural research, food safety, and the development of new crop varieties.
University of Arkansas
A research institution that operates agricultural centers to improve regional crop production and seed quality.
The details
The Sallah variety, formerly known as breeding line LJ 110, was created through a selective cross-breeding process. By combining the genetics of Jasmine 85 and Lemont, researchers developed a plant that meets specific aesthetic and quality standards, including low grain chalkiness and a slender shape. Seed supplies are currently being scaled up to support widespread planting for the 2027 season.
Timeline
August 6, 2026: Sallah was presented at the Rice Research and Extension Center Field Day.
2027: Sallah is scheduled for commercial availability to growers.
Health Landscape
This development follows the research efforts of the Rice Research and Extension Center to secure domestic agricultural independence for high-demand grain varieties. It marks an ongoing transition toward local production as the primary strategy for managing market fluctuations in imported rice.
This development may lead to more domestic aromatic rice options on store shelves starting in 2027. If you prefer specific rice varieties for their texture or cooking qualities, watch for new domestic labeling in the coming years.
The takeaway
The introduction of the Sallah variety represents a shift toward domestic aromatic rice production designed to offer growers and consumers new alternatives to international imports. Consider checking grain origin labels on your pantry staples to understand which varieties are grown locally versus imported.
What happens next
Seed supplies for the Sallah rice variety are being prepared throughout 2026 to ensure growers have access for the 2027 planting season.
Further reading
Learn more about agricultural trends and standards in our Organic Food section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Nation Thailand.
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Would you choose locally-grown rice over an imported variety if the price and quality were similar?
