Thiruvananthapuram: For people with diabetes, the days of measuring out small portions of rice may soon be over.

The CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR-NIIST), Thiruvananthapuram, has developed an advanced formulation technology for nutritionally enhanced "designer rice", aimed at delivering higher protein content, a lower glycaemic index (GI) and improved micronutrient bioavailability while preserving the look, taste and cooking characteristics of conventional rice.

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It helps keep post-meal blood sugar levels lower, offering relief to diabetics who typically restrict their carbohydrate intake.

The technology for producing the fortified rice has been transferred to industrial manufacturing. Tata Consumer Products and SS Soul Foods will be the first to produce it, with more companies expected to enter the segment soon, according to NIIST officials.

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The rice is made by blending rice flour with micronutrients such as iron, folic acid and vitamin B12 and then reshaping it to resemble natural rice grains. Unlike genetically modified crops, the product uses food processing technology.