Ben’s Original

This product earns a 3/5 green leaves rating. Ben’s Original Ready Rice™ Long Grain White Rice is a convenient option for those seeking a quick and easy rice dish. It’s a parboiled long grain rice that is pre-cooked and requires minimal preparation time, making it a practical choice for busy individuals.

The product is not organic, which results in a lower rating on our scale. The use of non-organic ingredients generally means that the rice may have been cultivated using conventional farming methods that could involve synthetic fertilizers or pesticides. Additionally, there is no indication that the ingredients are non-GMO, which is another factor that affects the green leaf rating negatively.

The inclusion of canola oil, which we categorize as a potentially harmful oil, further impacts the product’s score. While some debate exists regarding the health implications of canola oil, our criteria take a cautious approach, favoring oils that have a more established record of health benefits.

The rice is fortified with nutrients such as niacin, iron, thiamine, and folate. These additions can be beneficial, especially for those who may lack these nutrients in their diet. However, the health benefits of fortification should be weighed against the overall desire for cleaner food products with fewer processed ingredients.

As a food option, Ben’s Original Ready Rice™ Long Grain White Rice provides a middle ground for consumers. It is neither at the forefront of clean eating nor is it among the least healthy options available. It serves as an intermediate choice for those who prioritize convenience but are also mindful of some aspects of food quality. For individuals seeking cleaner, more natural food products, there are alternatives with higher green leaf ratings that might be more suitable. However, this product may still align with the needs of those who are transitioning towards healthier options without making a complete shift away from all processed foods.