To explore the correlation between the freshness and quality indicators of Oryza sativa subsp.indica Kato, and analyze the impact of different varieties and regions on these indicators.

A total of 165 freshly harvested Oryza sativa subsp. indica Kato samples from Liaoning Province were selected for analysis. The indicators measured included freshness, taste value, chalkiness, brown rice yield and head rice yield. Correlation analysis and comparisons among varieties/regions were conducted using SPSS 22.

Freshness showed a significant negative correlation with both grain moisture content (r=–0.328) and milled rice moisture content (r=–0.373)(P<0.01). Compared different varieties, the salt-rich variety exhibited the highest freshness score (90.0 points), while Zhongkefa No.5 had the optimal taste value (80.0 points). Additionally, Dahuaxiang displayed the greatest chalkiness level (9.9%). The indicators of the same variety vary significantly in different regions (for instance, Zhongkefa No.5’s freshness varied by 8 points between two locations in Panjin).

The research results show that the freshness of Oryza sativa subsp. indica Kato is primarily influenced by moisture content and there is no correlation with the taste value. The significant impact of variety and regional factors on freshness may be caused by the superposition of growth and storage conditions. Storage suitability needs to be comprehensively evaluated in combination with more indicators.