Ingredient
Brown Rice Syrup
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 1 other analysisMay 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 BrownieMay cause spikes in blood sugar levels due to its high glycemic index.
from the analysis of Back To Nature Crackers Classic RoundExcessive consumption may contribute to increased blood sugar levels.
from the analysis of KIND ALMOND BUTTER WHOLE GRAIN CLUSTERSThe 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 mild sweetness without the use of artificial sweeteners.
from the analysis of bear naked Cereal All Natural Fit Vanilla AlmondProvides a natural sweetening option with a mild flavor.
from the analysis of Made Good Snack Bars Chocolate ChipMore from Scout's analyses
Brown 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 BARBrown 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 CLUSTERSFound in 11 products
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