One of the most well-known varieties of traditional rice, Suwandel is a white rice with a delicious taste and unique aroma. (‘Suwanda’ in Sinhala, means aroma or fragrance). It is grown in the Southern Lowland regions and usually takes a longer time from planting to harvesting than other traditional or high-yield types.

Suwandel is known to have relatively high concentrations of vitamins and glutamic acids. Its antioxidant properties make it ideal for people with high blood pressure.

In ancient times Suwandel was also utilized as a beauty product for better skin and hair.

Suwandel is prepared plain, with turmeric, which gives it a yellow colour and an even more delicious aroma. It can be made into a porridge either mixed with other grains or by itself.  

Kaluheenati (Black Long Grain Rice) is the dark red variety of the Heenati family of rice where the grains are usually fine and long. Kalu Heenati is normally found in the Eastern Province.

Kaluheenati has many benefits including being good for expectant and lactating mothers. It also has a low Glycemic index which makes it really good for people with diabetes. Kaluheenati has also been found to be beneficial towards reducing high blood pressure and fat due to its antioxidant properties. Other benefits include weight loss, aiding physical recovery and fighting anaemia.

Kaluheenati can be cooked on its own or added to a porridge mix to provide extra nutrition.