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NOVARROZ AND SHIRO RICE SPONSORED THE 2025 EUROPEAN SUSHI CHAMPIONSHIP
International event celebrated the excellence of Japanese cuisine in Porto
On October 28, the city of Porto hosted the 2025 European Sushi Championship – an event that brought together, at Quinta do Jordão, the finest sushi masters from across Europe in a celebration of Japanese gastronomy.
At the heart of this celebration was Shiro rice, a Novarroz brand specially developed for sushi, which served as the official rice of the competition.
After an intense day of competition, Cristina Elena Muñóz Fernández impressed the jury with an outstanding creation, becoming the first woman ever to win this European championship. Among the 10 finalists, she stood out for the quality, flavour, and originality of her work, celebrating both talent and innovation.
By partnering with this prestigious event, Novarroz sought to highlight the versatility and excellence of Shiro rice:
“We value initiatives like this, which allow us to strengthen our connection with the professional sector and reinforce our position as a benchmark in premium sushi rice. These moments are essential to share knowledge, inspire chefs, and reaffirm our commitment to quality and innovation,” said João Machado, Novarroz Marketing Director.
In Portugal, Shiro has been consolidating its position as a reference in the professional channel and expanding its presence in retail, aiming to establish itself as a specialist brand within the category. Internationally, it continues to grow sustainably, expanding distribution and strengthening the reputation for quality, trust, and innovation that defines the brand.
SHIRO Varieties
KOSHIHIKARI
Delicacy and Tradition
Koshihikari is a short-grain, round white rice with a mild flavour and pearly colour. Widely used in Japanese cuisine, it is particularly suited for sushi, as well as other Asian dishes. Thanks to its resilience during cooking, it can also be used in soups and desserts.
CALROSE
Balance and Versatility
Calrose is a medium-grain rice with a delicate flavour, glossy appearance, and slightly sticky texture. Its subtle taste allows it to absorb seasonings and ingredient flavours effectively. It is ideal for sushi and other Asian dishes and can also be used in soups and desserts due to its resistance to overcooking.
SELENIO
Precision and Lightness
A short-grain, round white rice with a delicate flavour and crystalline colour. It is perfect for small, detailed sushi pieces as well as for other Asian-inspired dishes such as pokes, desserts, and soups.
About Novarroz
Novarroz – Produtos Alimentares, S.A. is a 100% Portuguese company specialized in the selection, processing, and marketing of rice. With a strong commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability, it currently exports to over 65 countries and stands as one of the leading references in the Portuguese rice sector.
Through its brands, such as SHIRO, Novarroz promotes a product of excellence that values its origin, respects the planet, and contributes to consumers’ well-being.