logo

Exhibiting at Gulfood 2025

Za'abeel Hall 4, Z4-F22
Dubai World Trade Centre
17 Feb - 21 Feb, 2025

Product Offerings

Product Categories:

Rice and Rice Products

Products:

Rices: Carnaroli, Arborio, Baldo, Vialone Nano, S. Andrea, Fragrance, Oishi (Sushi Rice)

DOP Rices: Carnaroli DOP, S. Andrea DOP

Risottos: Risotto al Tartufo, Risotto ai Funghi Porcini

Rice Delicacies: Panettone al Riso

Beauty Range: Rice-based cosmetic products

Arborio Rice, Carnaroli Rice, Baldo Rice, Riso Viola (Purple Rice), Sushi Rice

About Riso Merlano S.r.l.

Riso Merlano S.r.l. is a prestigious Italian rice producer based in Buronzo, Italy, in the heart of the Vercelli rice-growing region. With a commitment to excellence, tradition, and innovation, Riso Merlano has been a prominent name in the cultivation, processing, and distribution of high-quality rice varieties. The company specializes in producing DOP-certified rice, ensuring authenticity and superior quality for its consumers.

Core Business

Riso Merlano focuses on producing and marketing premium rice varieties, both for the domestic Italian market and international exports. The company prides itself on sustainable and traditional rice cultivation techniques, maintaining the heritage of Italian rice farming while integrating modern processing technologies.

Product and Service Offerings

Riso Merlano offers a diverse range of rice varieties and rice-based specialty products, catering to gourmet chefs, households, and food manufacturers.

Premium Rice Varieties:

  • Carnaroli – Considered the "king of risotto rice," known for its high starch content and creamy texture.
  • Arborio – A classic risotto rice with large grains and excellent absorption capacity.
  • Baldo – Versatile rice with a slightly sticky texture, perfect for soups and pilafs.
  • Vialone Nano – A Venetian variety ideal for creamy risottos.
  • S. Andrea – Soft and versatile rice, widely used in regional Italian dishes.
  • Fragrance – Aromatic rice variety similar to Basmati, offering a fragrant experience.
  • Oishi (Sushi Rice) – Specifically cultivated for Japanese cuisine and sushi preparation.

DOP-Certified Rice:

  • Carnaroli DOP – A Protected Designation of Origin (DOP) variety guaranteeing authenticity.
  • S. Andrea DOP – A high-quality, regionally protected rice.

Gourmet Risotto Mixes:

  • Risotto al Tartufo – Truffle-infused risotto mix for gourmet dining.
  • Risotto ai Funghi Porcini – A rich, mushroom-flavored risotto blend.

Rice-Based Specialty Products:

  • Panettone al Riso – A unique panettone variation made with rice flour.

Rice-Based Beauty Products:

  • Natural rice-based cosmetics – Skincare products made with rice extracts for hydration and nourishment.

Unique Selling Proposition (USP)

Riso Merlano is recognized for its:

  • High-Quality DOP Rice Production – Ensuring authenticity, traceability, and superior taste.
  • Sustainable Farming Practices – Promoting eco-friendly rice cultivation.
  • Innovation in Rice-Based Products – Diversifying offerings beyond traditional rice.
  • Gourmet-Grade Quality – Catering to premium food markets, restaurants, and Michelin-star chefs.
  • Rich Italian Heritage – Carrying forward generations of rice farming traditions in the Vercelli region.

Financial Performance

Riso Merlano operates in the €1.8 billion Italian rice industry, which has been growing at a CAGR of 3.2% due to rising demand for premium and DOP-certified rice. The company has:

  • Annual production capacity exceeding 10,000 metric tons of rice.
  • Expanded distribution across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
  • Strong retail presence in premium Italian grocery chains and online platforms.
  • Growing demand in the gourmet and health-conscious segments.

Shipment & Export Data

Riso Merlano has strengthened its global distribution network, exporting premium Italian rice to over 15 countries, including:

  • France, Germany, and the UK – Strong demand in the European gourmet market.
  • Japan and South Korea – Supplying high-quality sushi rice for Asian consumers.
  • United States and Canada – Targeting the premium organic and specialty food market.
  • Middle East – Increasing exports to UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar for high-end restaurants and retailers.

The company exports approximately 5,000+ metric tons of rice annually, with a focus on DOP-certified and gourmet varieties.

Target Market

Riso Merlano serves a diverse clientele, including:

  • Gourmet Restaurants and Chefs – Supplying high-end risotto and sushi rice varieties.
  • Retail Consumers – Offering premium rice products in supermarkets and online.
  • Food Manufacturers – Providing bulk rice for processed food applications.
  • Health-Conscious Consumers – Meeting demand for natural and minimally processed grains.

Capabilities

  • State-of-the-art rice processing facility ensuring quality control and consistency.
  • Traceable supply chain from farm to packaging, ensuring product authenticity.
  • Research & Development team focused on innovation in rice varieties and packaging solutions.
  • Eco-friendly and sustainable farming techniques to preserve biodiversity.

Certifications & Compliance

Riso Merlano upholds the highest industry standards and certifications, ensuring compliance with global food safety regulations:

  • DOP Certification – Protected Designation of Origin for premium rice varieties.
  • ISO 22000:2018 – Food safety management certification.
  • HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) – Ensuring food safety throughout production.
  • EU Organic Certification – Compliance with European organic food standards.

Customer Testimonials

The brand has gained trust and appreciation from top chefs and consumers worldwide:

"Riso Merlano’s Carnaroli DOP rice is the best I’ve ever used for risotto. The texture and creaminess are unmatched!" – Michelin-Star Chef Review

"Their sushi rice quality rivals the best in Japan! A game-changer for my restaurant." – Japanese Restaurant Owner

"Premium quality, amazing packaging, and the best-tasting Italian rice on the market." – Gourmet Retail Store Review

Achievements

  • Recognized as one of Italy’s top premium rice producers.
  • Awarded DOP certification for Carnaroli and S. Andrea rice.
  • Successful international expansion, exporting to over 15+ countries.
  • Continuous innovation in rice-based gourmet and health-conscious products.
  • Regular participation in major food expos and trade shows, increasing global brand recognition.

With its commitment to heritage, quality, and innovation, Riso Merlano is poised to become a global leader in the premium rice industry, offering the finest Italian rice to gourmet kitchens worldwide.