In Thailand, the Rice Mother Mae Posop is worshiped as rice itself. It is believed that, like a mother who feeds her children, Mae Posop gives her body and soul to sustain human life. At harvest, Mae Posop is said to be shy and easily frightened by men. Before harvest, no men, loud noises, or talk of death and demons are permitted. Such disturbances are thought to result in and crop failure.
Rice helps feed two-thirds of the world's population.
Rice has been feeding mankind for more than 5,000 years. Colonists were the first to cultivate rice in America. Arkansas is the leading rice producing state, followed by California, Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi, Missouri and Florida. There is also research on growing rice that is packed with vitamins. This could help feed many people who live in countries with little food.