Ingredient
Organic Brown Rice Syrup
What is Organic Brown Rice Syrup?
Organic Brown Rice Syrup is a sweetener derived from brown rice, usually through a process that involves cooking the rice and breaking down the starches into sugars like maltose and glucose. It is often prized for its subtle sweetness and is a vegan alternative to honey.
It is used in food products as a sweetening agent and can be found in many organic and health-food products, including snacks, cereals, and bars. There is mixed evidence regarding its health impact; while it is less sweet than sugar, its glycemic index is high, which means it can cause blood sugar levels to spike.
When you see Organic Brown Rice Syrup on a label, it’s often an indicator that the product is marketed as organic or health-conscious, though the health benefits compared to other sweeteners might not be significant.
Commonly found in: protein bars, granola bars, baby snacks, candy, breakfast cereals
What to watch
- High glycemic index may contribute to blood sugar spikes.
Benefits
- Serves as a vegan-friendly alternative to honey.
Organic Brown Rice Syrup is considered Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA and can be used in various food products without specific restrictions.
Research shows mixed results; some studies highlight its high glycemic index, while others focus on its potential heavy metal content like arsenic, neither proving extensively harmful nor beneficial.
Organic Brown Rice Syrup is plant-based and aligns with vegan principles as an alternative to animal-derived sweeteners.
Sources: Overview of Alternative Sweeteners · FDA GRAS Notices
Scout's take
High glycemic sweetener; may contain trace arsenic from rice source
The case against
May contribute to elevated blood sugar levels if consumed in excess.
from the analysis of heavenly hunks ORGANIC OATMEAL DARK CHOCOLATE GLUTEN-FREE COOKIESThe case for
Provides a lower glycemic index alternative to regular sugar.
from the analysis of heavenly hunks ORGANIC OATMEAL DARK CHOCOLATE GLUTEN-FREE COOKIESMore from Scout's analyses
Organic brown rice syrup is a concentrated sugar source that can contribute to high sugar intake.
from the analysis of Honey Stinger Organic Gluten Free Salted Caramel WaffleBrown rice syrup is a processed sweetener that adds sugar content with minimal nutritional value.
from the analysis of Dave's Killer Bread Crunchy Snack Bites Bold BuffaloRefined sweetener with a very high glycemic index (~98). Third sugar source in this bar.
from the analysis of Clif Builders Protein BarFound in 7 products
Scan any product to see every ingredient explained — and healthier swaps.
Download on theApp Store GET IT ONGoogle Play