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GFA Evaluation
Carolina Gold long-grain rice (Oryza sativa), the principal rice of American colonial-era agriculture (late 17th–early 19th centuries). Starchier, more aromatic, and more complex in flavour than modern long-grain varieties. Grown in South Carolina Lowcountry.
Single heirloom variety: Carolina Gold (Oryza sativa subsp. indica). Grown and milled in South Carolina. No additives. Stone-milled.
Anson Mills partners with a small number of Carolina Lowcountry rice growers to sustain the variety. The Carolina Gold Rice Foundation (nonprofit) supports seed preservation and farmer recruitment. Both organisations are publicly documented.
Carolina Gold was documented as nearly extinct by the mid-20th century. Its revival is recorded in agricultural history literature and supported by USDA GRIN records. Cooking behaviour (elevated starch, distinct aroma) differs substantially from commodity long-grain rice — this is a documented varietal characteristic, not a marketing claim.