Rice can sometimes fizz due to fermentation. Microorganisms consume rice starches, producing carbon dioxide as a by-product. This carbon dioxide creates the fizz, indicating the rice may be spoiling.

why do rice fizz

The Science Behind It

The fizzing you observe in rice is often a sign of microbial activity, specifically fermentation. Rice contains starches, which serve as a food source for various microorganisms like bacteria and yeast. When these microorganisms proliferate, they break down the starches through metabolic processes. A common byproduct of this process is carbon dioxide gas. This gas escapes from the rice-water mixture, leading to the appearance of bubbles and the characteristic fizzing sound. The presence of fizzing doesn't automatically render the rice unsafe, though it can indicate spoilage. Other signs such as a sour smell or change of color can reinforce that you should not consume the rice. Proper storage is critical to avoid this fizzing effect.

Fun Facts

Rice is a staple food for more than half of the world's population.
Fermented rice is used to make traditional alcoholic beverages like sake in Japan.