(Washington, DC) – Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement celebrating September as National Rice Month:

“Serving as a hub of America’s rice production, South Louisiana knows the importance of this extremely important agricultural commodity. Whether you’re talking about Cajun country rice, traditional white rice, short, medium, and long grain, or anything in between, rice is enjoyed by most of the world. Rich in vitamins and nutrients, low in calories, and containing almost no fat, rice serves a very important role in a healthy diet.

“Rice grown on Louisiana soil makes the United States the world’s fourth largest rice exporter. Towns like Crowley, home of the International Rice Festival, ‘where life is rice and easy,’ serve as a testament to the role South Louisiana plays in making rice such a valued commodity. I’m proud to recognize September as National Rice Month,” said Boustany.

USA Rice Federation Chairman Jackie Loewer added, “For consumers, we celebrate National Rice Month to highlight the nutritious and economical food that rice is. It's a way to get reminded and reacquainted of all of rice's benefits. For the industry, we celebrate National Rice Month to remind ourselves the industry is moving forward on several issues while bringing positive attention to our state.”

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