Contributed by Yvonne Carne-Ross
A small group of local English residents of Calasparra were taken around the Co-operative Virgen de Esperanza on Monday.
Jose Ruiz the Manager, explained the process from the time the lorry arrives in Calasparra, with the grain harvested from the local rice fields.
Firstly, the grains are dried to prevent fermentation and any bacteria developing, before moving to the machine which removes any small stones before they proceed to the milling machine which removes the outer husks.
The mountains of rice are stored in the outer warehouse awaiting orders for Spain or for export around the world. The best Bomba rice is kept cooled and stored under plastic at a constant temperature.
The cooperative produces integral and semi integral brown rice. The Bomba (a round rice) keeps its shape during cooling and plumps up to absorb the liquid in paellas. They also produce organic rice which is processed through the machines once the machine has been washed and cleaned. Nothing from the original plant is wasted; all debris is sold on for animal feed.
Distribution is worldwide and the group watched local women hand sewing the cloth bags and stitching the tag and certificate of authenticity before packing them into boxes for distribution the same day to Australia. Other countries on their export route, as well as to the UK, include Italy, Germany, France, the Middle East and Japan.
We learnt that once opened, especially during the summer months, the rice at home should be kept cool preferably in the salad container in the fridge.
A very interesting experience rounded of with a pre-arranged Menu del Dia in Valentin.
Another trip is planned for January. If you are interested please contact Yvonne Carne-Ross via email: ycarneross@hotmail.com. Numbers are restricted as we need to translate over the noise of the machines!
