Ben’s Original
Flavor:
Ready Rice™ Cilantro Lime
Ingredients:
Water, Parboiled Long Grain Rice, Coconut Cream, Canola Oil, Cilantro; Less than 2% of: Sugar, Salt, Maltodextrin, Coconut Oil, Milk, Citric Acid, Garlic Powder, Yeast Extract, Natural Lime Flavors, Safflower Oil, Natural Flavors (Contains Milk), Sodium Caseinate, Vitamins and Minerals [Calcium (Calcium Carbonate), Iron (Iron Phosphate), Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide), Vitamin B1 (Thiamine Mononitrate), Folic Acid], Spices, Mono and Diglycerides.
Rating: We Avoid
- 1 out of 5
Ingredient Score:
Rated at 1 out of 5 green leaves, the Ben’s Original Ready Rice™ Cilantro Lime is not recommended for those seeking cleaner food options. This pre-cooked rice dish falls short in several key areas that are important for health-conscious consumers.
The product is not organic, and it does not use non-GMO ingredients, which are two significant factors for those aiming to avoid synthetic pesticides and genetically modified organisms in their diet. The inclusion of added sugars, such as sugar and citric acid, further detracts from the product’s healthfulness. These added sugars contribute to the overall caloric content without providing any beneficial nutrients, and they are often linked to negative health effects when consumed in excess.
The presence of potentially harmful additives is another concern. The terms “Natural Flavor” and “Flavor” listed on the packaging are ambiguous and may encompass a range of substances, some of which may not align with cleaner eating principles. Similarly, mono and diglycerides, which are commonly used as emulsifiers in processed foods, are deducted points for their potential health implications.
Maltodextrin, a highly processed additive often derived from corn, wheat, or potato starch, has been identified as a known harmful additive. It is typically used to improve texture or flavor, but it can spike blood sugar levels, making it undesirable for individuals managing their glucose intake.
Furthermore, the product contains oils like safflower oil and canola oil. While these oils are commonplace in many processed foods, they are not considered the healthiest options due to their high omega-6 fatty acid content and the potential for being sourced from genetically modified crops.
Given these factors, Ben’s Original Ready Rice™ Cilantro Lime is not aligned with the criteria for cleaner, healthier food choices as defined by the rating system in place. Consumers looking for nutritious and minimally processed options might find better alternatives elsewhere that meet higher standards for organic ingredients, the absence of GMOs, and the exclusion of added sugars and questionable additives.
Certifications:
None
Product formulations and certifications may change. For current nutrition facts and ingredient
line information, check product packaging.
Categories:
None
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