MMSU Extension Directorate

𝗙𝗘𝗔𝗧𝗨𝗥𝗘 | The "Extra Cup" of Rice You Should Take

By Benedict Jay Collado

For many Filipinos, asking for "extra rice" used to be second nature. Today, however, more people think twice, mindful of calories, carbohydrates, and healthier lifestyles. But what if the same grain often avoided by the diet-conscious could be enjoyed in an entirely different way?

Not on a plate, but in a cup.

Rice coffee transforms one of the country's most familiar staples into a warm, aromatic beverage. Made by roasting rice grains until they develop a rich, nutty flavor, it is naturally caffeine-free, acid-free, and rich in antioxidants. It offers a comforting alternative to conventional coffee, without the jitters or palpitations.

Rice has long been a constant on Filipino dining tables. We enjoy it steamed with every meal, savor it in sticky delicacies, and even ferment it into traditional beverages. Surprisingly, it can also grace our mornings, poured into a cup of hot water, stirred until it dissolves, and paired with a warm pandesal, quietly preparing both body and mind for the day ahead.

At Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU), what began as a simple idea has grown into a thriving livelihood.

Sarah Concepcion Dabucon, an alumna of the BS Agriculture program, grew up farming alongside her two brothers on their family's three-hectare land. During the wet season, they planted rice. After harvest, they shifted to peanut and soybean production. Seeking ways to increase the value of their harvests, Sarah received guidance from MMSU extension workers, who introduced her to producing peanut butter and soybean coffee.

Later, she was encouraged to try something even more familiar to Ilokanos: roasting rice into coffee. For generations, roasted rice has been enjoyed in many homes for its distinctive aroma and perceived health benefits. To Sarah's surprise, her rice coffee sold three times as much as her peanut butter and soybean coffee.

Seeing its potential, Sarah continued working with the MMSU Extension Directorate, which helped improve her product through better packaging, labeling, and marketing. What started as a small livelihood gradually became a more competitive enterprise.
Behind every cup, however, is painstaking work.

Roasting rice is far from simple. The grains must be continuously stirred over an open flame to achieve an even roast, and they are pounded four times throughout the process until they become a fine powder. It demands patience, consistency, and care before the comforting aroma finally reaches the cup.

Today, with improved equipment and machinery, Sarah has increased production speed and efficiency. Her products are now manufactured under the brand SCUFYND, a name lovingly created by combining the names of her children.

Over the years, Sarah has become an advocate for a healthier way of enjoying one of the country's staple crops. Her rice coffee highlights its many benefits, including being naturally acid-free and caffeine-free, while providing antioxidants, dietary fiber, and essential nutrients. It has become an appealing option for those seeking a gentler alternative to conventional coffee.

And it is as good for the local economy as it is for the body. Rice coffee has opened new opportunities for farmers and small entrepreneurs. With the support of MMSU through research, extension, and product development, a traditional Ilokano practice has evolved into a livelihood that adds value to one of the country's most important crops.

Indeed, innovation does not always begin with something new. Sometimes, it starts with seeing something familiar differently. In every cup of rice coffee is proof that even the country's oldest staple can still surprise us.

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SCUFYND Rice Coffee and other healthy coffee blends are available at the MMSU Marketing Center and in all satellite canteens across the university. For inquiries and orders, interested customers may contact Ms. Ivy Kristel Batucal at 0946-585-9085 or Ms. Yancy Visitacion at 0909-274-1951. Products are also conveniently accessible through the vending machines located at the Administration Building and the College of Medicine (COM).

https://bannawag.mb.com.ph/2024/12/22/tulong-iti-mannalon-bulong-ti-talinum-a-kas-pagpakan-iti-baboy/?-1ub7ukmh0lvgkl47hu3gebuw_wes3cpu_aem_guf_dzbyehq86vpbvk6yga

AGKURKURANGKA kadi iti pagpakan iti tarakenmo a baboy? Wenno agprobproblemaka iti kinangina ti commercial feeds?

Pakanem man ti baboymo iti bulong ti talinum, kas imbalakad ni Dr. Sean R. Vidad manipud iti MMSU-College of Agriculture, Food and Sustainable Development (CAFSD).

TULONG ITI MANNALON: Bulong ti Talinum a Kas Pagpakan iti Baboy TULONG ITI MANNALON: Bulong ti Talinum a Kas Pagpakan iti Baboy - MAGASIN - AGKURKURANGKA kadi iti pagpakan iti tarakenmo a baboy? Wenno agprobproblemaka iti kinangina ti commercial feeds?Pakanem man ti baboymo iti bulong ti talinum, ka...

𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦 | MMSU Biology Dept holds hand-hygiene seminar in Carasi

By Benedict Jay Collado

To promote proper hand hygiene among young learners, faculty members of the MMSU Department of Biological Sciences (DBS) conducted "Malinis Na Kamay: Ligtas na Buhay," a seminar on hand hygiene and hand-transmitted diseases at Carasi Elementary School on June 22.

The activity was initiated by the department in partnership with the MMSU Biological Circle, the Philippine Society for Microbiology - Luzon Chapter (PSM-NL), the Philippine Society for Biotechnology and Molecular Biology - North Luzon, and the Biology Teachers Association of the Philippines - Ilocos Region.

Exploring the world of microorganisms through discussions, interactive activities, and practical demonstrations, the pupils engaged in informal talks and demonstrations on proper handwashing and personal hygiene, followed by the distribution of soap and towels to encourage the regular practice of these healthy habits.

According to DBS Chair Alice Geraldine Hernando-Pagaling, the activity increased the pupils' awareness of the importance of proper handwashing and good hygiene practices.

“Through the interactive discussions and demonstrations, they learned how proper handwashing helps prevent the spread of diseases and promotes overall health. The pupils were encouraged to consistently practice these habits not only in school but also at home, allowing them to apply what they learned in their daily lives,” Dr. Pagaling explained.

This annual activity follows the Regional Convention of the Philippine Society for Microbiology - Luzon, and aims to provide ongoing community outreach and hygiene education initiatives for elementary students. Dr. Pagaling noted that partnerships with professional organizations help sustain these educational efforts.