Malaysians consume rice regularly, sometimes up to three times a day. The COVID-19 pandemic, with the rising concerns over non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular disease, chronic respiratory disease and diabetes, serves as a reminder to Malaysians of the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Many started their healthier lifestyle journey by adhering to a strict no-rice diet. An international study presented at the 2019 European Congress on Obesity however indicated that obesity was substantially lower in countries with high rice consumption. Professor Tomoko Imai of Doshisha Women's College of Liberal Arts, Kyoto, Japan, researched and stated that the fibre, nutrients and plant compounds found in whole grains enhanced the sensation of satiety, preventing overeating.

Jasmine SunBrown, a locally grown and produced brown rice, is a popular option among Malaysians. Brown rice, with a substantially higher amount of nutrients such as fibre, vitamins B1, B3, B6, manganese and iron,  has an excellent impact on health when consumed as part of a nutritionally balanced diet while preventing chronic diseases, according to research.

Catering to consumers that prefer Basmathi rice, the Jasmine PusaCream offers a healthy parboiled basmathi rice option, rich in natural minerals and vitamins. The specially selected basmathi, grown in the Himalaya Punjab, India, contains less carbohydrate and fat and has a low Glycemic Index Score, indicating longer periods for the rice to increase blood glucose levels. The rice is also cholesterol- and gluten-free, making it ideal for everyday consumption.

The rice's scientifically proven benefits prompted Jasmine to encourage Malaysians to incorporate rice into their healthy diet and share their journey through a series of photos or videos. Participants stand a chance to win prizes worth RM20,000.

Commencing on July 15 until Aug 11, 2021, participants must upload at least three healthy meals with a caption: "My #JasmineStayFitChallenge is all about …". Participants are to follow or like, and tag @jasminefoodmy,  and add the hashtag #JasmineStayFitChallenge on Instagram. Winners will be selected based on the creativity in showcasing meals and captions.

Jasmine also collaborates with local "mom-influencers" who will share their journey as they take on the #JasmineStayFitChallenge. Daphne Iking  along with other #JasmineStayFit Edutainment influencers, including Maggie Soo (@magg.my), Wardina Anuar (@wardinaanuar), and Dayana Razip (@diyanarazip) will be sharing insights into maintaining a healthy lifestyle despite a busy schedule.

To find out more, please visit Jasmine Food on Facebook and Instagram.