Ben’s Original

Rated at 3 out of 5 green leaves, the Ben’s Original Ready Rice™ Whole Grain Brown Rice offers consumers a convenient choice in the search for healthier food options. This product provides whole grain brown rice in a ready-to-eat format, which serves as a quick and wholesome grain base for a variety of meals.

The rice is not organic, which detracts from its overall rating, as our criteria prioritize organic products due to their reduced environmental impact and absence of synthetic pesticides. Additionally, the presence of canola oil, which we consider a harmful oil, further lowers the product’s score. While canola oil is a common ingredient in many processed foods, our standards are set to encourage the use of oils that are less processed or have a more favorable health profile.

Moreover, the product does not use non-GMO ingredients. Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are often a concern for consumers seeking cleaner food options, and the avoidance of GMOs is a key factor in our rating system. Products that are non-GMO tend to receive higher scores, reflecting a preference for natural genetic profiles in crops.

The inclusion of only three ingredients—water, whole grain parboiled brown rice, and canola and/or sunflower oil—does suggest simplicity in the product’s composition. This simplicity can be a positive aspect for those aiming to consume foods with fewer additives and preservatives. However, the absence of organic certification and the use of potentially genetically modified ingredients and canola oil affect the product’s standing within our rating system.

The Ben’s Original Ready Rice™ Whole Grain Brown Rice is positioned as a middle-of-the-road option for consumers seeking cleaner food choices. While it has its merits in terms of convenience and simplicity, the product’s non-organic status, inclusion of canola oil, and potential use of GMOs are areas where it falls short of the highest standards set by our green leaf rating system.