HOUSTON — Riviana Foods Inc. is investing $27 million to double the production capacity for its Minute brand microwavable rice products at its plant in Memphis, Tenn. The investment represents the second time in three years that Riviana has undertaken a significant capital project to improve its ready-to-serve production capabilities at the 400,000-square-foot processing and packaging plant.

Overall, it is the fifth expansion project to take place at the facility since it opened in 2006, Riviana said.

“We will be in a stronger position to meet or exceed customer needs for the product,” said Enrique Zaragoza, senior vice-president and chief operating officer. “Just as important, this investment confirms our commitment as a partner with our employees and the Memphis business community.”

The expansion will add approximately 25 jobs, raising the total number of employees at the plant to 384.

Minute ready-to-serve products are available in 19 varieties, including jasmine rice, multi-grain medley, organic brown rice, organic white rice and organic white and red quinoa.

Riviana Foods is North America’s largest processor, marketer and distributor of branded and private label rice products and is the second-largest pasta manufacturer. The company is a wholly owned subsidiary of Madrid, Spain-based Ebro Foods, S.A.