Antioxidant activity and nutritional quality of traditional red-grained rice varieties containing proanthocyanidins

► We tested antioxidants and nutrients of eight traditional red-grained rice varieties. ► Red rice varieties showed superior antioxidant capacity and nutritional quality. ► Proanthocyanidins were identified as dominant antioxidants in red rice varieties. ► High levels of protein, amino acids and vitamin E were detected in red varieties. ► Proanthocyanidin-containing varieties are used as potential source of antioxidants.