Alpha-ized rice (Alpha-kome)

Alpha-ized rice (alpha-kome, α化米) is rice whose starch has been gelatinized (alpha-ized), meaning the starch has been changed by heating, and which has then been dehydrated and dried. Because of this process, the starch does not revert to beta (β) starch, so the rice can be used as is at the time of brewing. In sake brewing, alpha-ized rice is said to support the activity of yeast and promote fermentation. This allows the yeast to convert sugars into alcohol efficiently, resulting in sake with a rich aroma and flavor.