Preparation of Rice Milk

Rice milk itself does not naturally contain vitamin B12. To increase its vitamin B12 content, rice milk is usually fortified during the manufacturing process. Here is how commercial rice milk is prepared and fortified with vitamin B12:

Ingredients:

- 1 cup of cooked white or brown rice

- 4 cups of water

- Sweetener (optional, such as agave syrup or sugar)

- Vanilla extract (optional, for flavor)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Rice:

   - Cook the rice according to package instructions. You can use either white or brown rice.

2. Blend the Rice:

   - Add the cooked rice and water to a blender. Blend on high until the mixture is smooth.

3. Strain the Mixture:

   - Pour the blended mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh strainer into a large bowl to remove the solids. Squeeze or press the cheesecloth to extract as much liquid as possible. The liquid collected is your rice milk.

4. Flavor the Milk (Optional):

   - Add sweeteners like agave syrup or sugar to taste. You can also add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for additional flavor.

5. Store the Rice Milk:

   - Pour the rice milk into a clean bottle or jar and store it in the refrigerator. Shake well before each use, as it may separate over time.

### Fortification with Vitamin B12

For home-prepared rice milk, fortification is not typically done since it involves precise dosing and thorough mixing to ensure even distribution. However, understanding how commercial producers fortify rice milk can be helpful.

Commercial Fortification Process:

1. Preparation:

   - The rice milk is prepared on a large scale using industrial equipment that ensures a smooth, homogeneous product.

2. Addition of Fortification Agents:

   - Vitamin B12 (in the form of cyanocobalamin or methylcobalamin) is added to the rice milk. Fortification agents are usually in liquid or powdered form and are thoroughly mixed into the milk during the manufacturing process to ensure even distribution.

3. Quality Control:

   - The fortified rice milk undergoes rigorous quality control to ensure that the vitamin B12 is evenly distributed and that the milk meets nutritional and safety standards.

4. Packaging:

   - The fortified rice milk is then packaged into cartons or bottles and labeled accordingly, indicating the presence of added vitamin B12 and other nutrients.

### Purchasing Fortified Rice Milk

For most people, the easiest way to increase vitamin B12 intake through rice milk is to purchase commercially fortified products. When shopping for rice milk:

- Check Labels:

   - Look for rice milk that specifically states it is fortified with vitamin B12. The nutritional information on the packaging will typically list vitamin B12 content per serving.

- Choose Trusted Brands:

   - Opt for well-known and trusted brands that fortify their rice milk with essential vitamins and minerals.

### Conclusion

While homemade rice milk is a nutritious and delicious option, it does not naturally contain vitamin B12. Commercially fortified rice milk is a convenient alternative for vegans and those who need to increase their vitamin B12 intake. Always check product labels to ensure you are getting the necessary nutrients. If homemade, consider supplementing with B12 through other dietary sources or supplements.