Rice-based desserts

What are rice based desserts?

Rice-based desserts, or ‘rice cakes’, are ready-to-eat, fresh, soft and elastic products made from rice or glutinous rice (or rice flour), sugar and other ingredients such as beans and nuts. They are popular in Asia and are commonly sold in Asian grocery stores.

They are usually prepared by steaming, and can be moulded into different shapes and can consist of layers with different colours. Some products are boiled and look like a soup. Rice-based desserts are usually served at room temperature, as they go hard when stored cold.

Food safety risks

Rice-based desserts are nutrient-rich, have a high water content and a neutral pH, making them an ideal environment for food poisoning bacteria and can be dangerous if not stored correctly. However, when made under certain conditions, these products, when stored at room temperature, can be safely consumed up until the end of the day after manufacture.