Choshitsu-ho (humidity conditioning of polished rice)

Choshitsu-ho (humidity conditioning) is a technique for adjusting the moisture content of polished white rice before washing, in order to optimally control the water absorption rate of the steamed rice. This method keeps the moisture in the polished rice in proper balance. Because that balance affects how the rice cooks during steaming, it can improve the quality of the finished sake. Humidity conditioning is especially important in the early stages of sake brewing, as uniform moisture in the polished rice contributes to fermentation efficiency and consistency of flavor.