Rice requires warmth and abundant moisture, the plant is an annual, from 2 to 6 feet (61 to 183 cm) tall, with a round, jointed stem, long, pointed leaves, and seeds borne in a dense head on separate stalks. Thousands of rice strains are now known, both cultivated and wild. Estimates are that half the world's population subsists wholly or partially on rice. The largest producers are China, India, Indonesia, Bangladesh, and Thailand. Most rice that is grown is also consumed domestically. Brown rice has greater food value than white, since the outer coatings (which are polished away to yield white rice) contain protein and minerals, while the white endosperm is chiefly carbohydrate. As a food, rice is low in fat and protein, as compared to other grains. The beverage sake is brewed from rice. 

