INFORM May 2026

LIPID ANALYSIS INFORM 23

examine the influence of grain pigmentation on lipid composition. We are the first to report on the presence of a novel group of bioactive lipids in these foods. Black and green rice predominantly contain novel FAHMFA and LNAPE, offering anti-inflammatory benefits and slowing blood sugar spikes versus white rice. Comprehensive lipidomics annotated 196 lipids across five classes, confirming pigmented rices’ superior profiles: lab-simulated digestion (cooking plus enzymes) showed black

and green varieties curbed post-meal glucose surges dramatically. A LIPID LEGACY FOR GLOBAL HEALTH From fish to seaweeds—and now teas and rice—Japan has numerous lipid-rich traditions. These studies, funded by the Japanese Society for the Promotion of Science and the Japan Science and Technology Agency, reveal Japan’s overlooked lipid wealth, fuelling functional foods and personalized nutrition. We envision a future where choosing pigmented

rice or sorghum-infused products could redefine diets worldwide. Stay tuned, our ongoing hunts promise more breakthroughs. Siddabasave Gowda is an associate professor at Hokkaido University Faculty of Health Sciences, in Hokkaido, Japan. He leads lipid biomarker and bioactive food research. Divyavani Gowda is an assistant professor at the same institute, focusing on developing analytical platforms for targeted quantification of cholesteryl esters and sphingolipids in food and clinical samples. Shu-Ping Hui is a professor and lab director at the institute. She researches the role of lipids in food and health. For questions, please contact gowda@gfr.hokudai.ac.jp.

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