Ingredient · Updated
Brown Rice Syrup
Found in 13 productsSee all
What is Brown Rice Syrup?
Brown rice syrup is a sweetener derived from brown rice. It is made by breaking down the starches in cooked brown rice using enzymes, resulting in a thick, amber-colored syrup.
Brown rice syrup is commonly used as a substitute for traditional sugars in various food products. While it provides the sweetness, its high glycemic index means that it can spike blood sugar levels more than some other sweeteners. In terms of health effects, the evidence is mixed, with some concerns around its glycemic impact.
When checking labels, note that brown rice syrup is often found in natural and organic foods as a perceived healthier alternative to corn syrup or other refined sugars.
Commonly found in: energy bars, granola, baked goods, beverages, cereals
What to watch
- High glycemic index can lead to elevated blood sugar levels.
- Trace levels of arsenic have been found in some brown rice syrups.
Brown rice syrup is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA but not actively regulated.
Research highlights its high glycemic index, with some studies finding trace arsenic content in certain samples.
Brown rice syrup is plant-based and generally considered vegan-friendly.
Sources: Brown Rice Syrup as a Sweetener
Scout's take
Highly processed liquid sweetener with a very high glycemic index (98 — higher than table sugar). The first ingredient by weight, meaning this bar is primarily sugar. Often marketed as 'natural' but is enzymatically processed starch.
The case against
High glycemic index may lead to rapid increases in blood sugar levels.
from the analysis of bear naked Cereal All Natural Fit Vanilla Almond · echoed in 2 other analysesHigh glycemic index may cause rapid blood sugar spikes, which can be a concern for individuals with insulin sensitivity.
from the analysis of Back to Nature Banana Walnut Granola ClustersExcessive consumption may contribute to increased sugar intake and related health issues.
from the analysis of KIND Oats & Honey with Toasted CoconutMay contribute to elevated blood sugar levels and is less nutritious than whole grains.
from the analysis of Nature's Bakery BLUEBERRY REAL FRUIT & WHOLE GRAINS FIG BARCan lead to rapid increases in blood sugar levels, contributing to insulin resistance.
from the analysis of NATURE'S BAKERY Double Chocolate BrownieThe case for
Provides a natural alternative to refined sugars, though it offers minimal nutritional advantages.
from the analysis of Back To Nature Crackers Classic RoundProvides a natural source of sweetness with a lower glycemic index than some refined sugars.
from the analysis of KIND ALMOND BUTTER WHOLE GRAIN CLUSTERSProvides a mild sweetness and is free from fructose, which some individuals prefer.
from the analysis of Nature's Bakery BLUEBERRY REAL FRUIT & WHOLE GRAINS FIG BARProvides a source of energy, but lacks significant nutritional benefits.
from the analysis of Back to Nature Banana Walnut Granola ClustersProvides a mild sweetness without the use of artificial sweeteners.
from the analysis of bear naked Cereal All Natural Fit Vanilla AlmondMore from Scout's analyses
Brown rice syrup is a natural sweetener derived from brown rice. It is less processed than refined sugars but still contributes to sugar intake. It provides a mild sweetness with a lower glycemic index than some refined sugars.
from the analysis of KIND ALMOND BUTTER WHOLE GRAIN CLUSTERSBrown rice syrup is a sweetener derived from brown rice, often used as an alternative to refined sugars. It has a high glycemic index, which can affect blood sugar levels. While it is less processed than some sweeteners, it still lacks significant nutritional benefits.
from the analysis of Back To Nature Crackers Classic RoundBrown rice syrup is a sweetener derived from brown rice, often used as an alternative to high fructose corn syrup. It has a high glycemic index, which can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels. Despite being derived from rice, it is highly processed.
from the analysis of Nature's Bakery BLUEBERRY REAL FRUIT & WHOLE GRAINS FIG BARAll 13 products with Brown Rice Syrup
Where Brown Rice Syrup shows up
- Protein Bars 4 products
- Snack Bars 4 products
- Granola 3 products
- Oats 1 product
- Crackers 1 product
Higher-scoring picks without Brown Rice Syrup
Products from the same categories whose analyzed ingredient list does not include Brown Rice Syrup, scoring 80 or above.
Scan any product to see every ingredient explained — and healthier swaps.