The story of a success- Fuchs Reismanufaktur
The Fuchs family from Klöch in south-eastern Styria are considered Austria's rice experts. They have been cultivating rice using the dry cultivation method since 2010. While the first harvest was still rather modest, initiator Franz Fuchs expects between 150 and 200 tons of rice on a farmland area of around 60 hectares. The dried and cleaned rice is processed into whole grain rice and white (polished) rice in the new Reis Manufaktur Fuchs and gently vacuum-packed.
How it all began
During a cozy dinner in 2010, farmer Franz Fuchs noticed that all the ingredients in the meal came from the region where they live, with the exception of the side dish - there was rice. And so the idea was born to grow rice on the spot here in Klöch in Styria. And so this exciting project began.
Know-how
Over the next few years, the Fuchs family often went on study trips and bought many machines and materials for rice processing and used them in their own business. In addition to the classic rice varieties - brown rice (with silver skin) and polished rice - flour, semolina, pasta and even rice-based beer are produced by partner companies. Vegan noodles are also available. SteirerREIS by Fuchs products are available directly from the Fuchs family and online, as well as from selected partner companies. Every year there are new additions to the rice family. This year, the sweet refinement of the rice products is very popular.
Certificate of authenticity - vacuum packaging
You can always recognize genuine SteirerREIS by its vacuum packaging. Only this rice is vacuum-packed after processing at the production site in Klöch in the new rice factory. This keeps the rice fresh, free from pests (moths), has a longer shelf life, does not absorb moisture and does not absorb any foreign flavors. SteirerREIS is a natural product and therefore susceptible to the above-mentioned harmful factors. SteirerREIS in the vacuum packaging mentioned above can therefore be kept until the end of the recommended use-by period while maintaining the same quality.
Sustainability certificate
Since 2010, our SteirerREIS rice has been grown in Klöch for the first time using a dry cultivation method with appropriate irrigation, just like cereals. This pioneering work has made it possible to grow local rice using 70% less water than conventional rice. The rice is grown regionally and without genetic engineering. For us, this means short transportation routes and appreciation for the commitment of local farmers. Its fine, nutty aroma goes well with Styrian classics and international dishes.
In 2022, the Managing Director of Fuchs-VISID KG was named Styrian Entrepreneur of the Year in the Sustainability category by the Styrian Economic Chamber (WKO - Frau in der Wirtschaft Steiermark).
The installation of a 20KV photovoltaic system at Reismanufaktur Fuchs since 2023 has definitely contributed to significant energy savings. By using solar energy, companies like Reismanufaktur Fuchs can reduce their CO2 footprint and at the same time lower their energy costs.
lower their energy costs. It's an environmentally friendly and sustainable solution that pays off in the long term.