Key Facts
• Rice prices surged, and government released stockpiled rice in May 2025.
• Sales of home rice mills increased tenfold compared to the same month last year.
• MK Seiko, based in Chikuma City, has developed home rice mills for 40 years.
• Compact rice mills process 2 cups of rice in 2–3 minutes, priced at $140.
• Online sales temporarily halted due to overwhelming demand.
• Stockpiled rice release led to increased use of home rice mills for freshness.
• Machines feature a “refresh course” to restore aged rice’s freshness.
• Freshly milled rice retains higher flavor and nutritional potential.
• Experts recommend storing brown rice in refrigerators for optimal preservation.
• Home rice mills are also available at select electronics and home improvement stores.
Summary
The recent surge in rice prices and the release of government stockpiled rice have driven a significant increase in demand for home rice mills. MK Seiko, a company with 40 years of experience in developing rice-related products, reported a tenfold rise in sales of its compact rice mills compared to the same period last year. These machines, priced at approximately $140, can process 2 cups of rice in just 2–3 minutes and include features like a “refresh course” to restore the freshness of aged rice. The release of older stockpiled rice has encouraged consumers to mill rice at home for better taste and quality. While online sales are temporarily paused due to high demand, the product remains available at select retail stores. Experts recommend purchasing small amounts of brown rice and storing it in refrigerators to maintain its quality.
