Kitchari

Image: Open Food Facts (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Common questions

Is Kitchari healthy?

Kitchari scores 75/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This product contains a variety of whole grains and vegetables, which are beneficial for health due to their fiber and nutrient content.

How processed is Kitchari?

Kitchari is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Kitchari's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Pearl Millet, Split Mung Beans, Red Pumpkin count in its favor; Sunflower Oil is flagged as an ingredient of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Kitchari

Trader Joe's
75 Good

Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores

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Near you

Trader Joe's is carried at Trader Joe stores. Find one within 25 miles.

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 17
Harmful ingredients 1
Owned by Trader Joe's
Category Rice
Summary

This product contains a variety of whole grains and vegetables, which are beneficial for health due to their fiber and nutrient content. However, the presence of sunflower oil, a seed oil high in omega-6 fatty acids, is a concern as it can promote inflammation. The product is moderately processed, which limits its score despite the overall clean ingredient list.

Key ingredients 22

Split Mung Beans
Very Good

Split mung beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber. They are rich in vitamins and minerals, including folate and magnesium. Their high protein content supports muscle health and repair.

Benefits

Excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, supporting muscle health and digestion.

Ground Turmeric
Very Good

Ground turmeric contains curcumin, known for its strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It supports joint health and may improve brain function. Turmeric enhances flavor and color in dishes.

Benefits

Strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, supporting joint health.

Pearl Millet
Good

Pearl millet is a whole grain rich in fiber and essential nutrients. It provides a good source of magnesium and phosphorus, supporting bone health. Its complex carbohydrates offer sustained energy release.

Benefits

Rich in fiber and essential nutrients, supporting digestive health and providing sustained energy.

Red Pumpkin
Good

Red pumpkin is low in calories and high in vitamins A and C. It provides antioxidants that support immune function and skin health. Its fiber content aids in digestion.

Benefits

High in vitamins A and C, supporting immune function and skin health.

Carrot
Good

Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A. They support eye health and provide antioxidants. Carrots also offer dietary fiber, aiding digestion.

Benefits

Rich in beta-carotene and fiber, supporting eye health and digestion.

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Green Peas
Good

Green peas are a good source of plant-based protein and fiber. They contain vitamins C and K, supporting immune function and bone health. Their low glycemic index helps regulate blood sugar levels.

Benefits

Good source of protein and fiber, supporting immune function and blood sugar regulation.

Brown Rice
Good

Brown rice is a whole grain that provides fiber and essential nutrients. It supports heart health and aids in digestion. Its complex carbohydrates offer sustained energy.

Benefits

Provides fiber and essential nutrients, supporting heart health and digestion.

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Rolled Oats
Good

Rolled oats are a whole grain rich in fiber and beta-glucans. They support heart health by lowering cholesterol levels. Oats provide sustained energy and aid in digestion.

Benefits

Rich in fiber and beta-glucans, supporting heart health and digestion.

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Amaranth
Good

Amaranth is a pseudocereal high in protein and essential amino acids. It is gluten-free and supports muscle health. Amaranth also provides fiber, aiding in digestion.

Benefits

High in protein and fiber, supporting muscle health and digestion.

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Finger Millet
Good

Finger millet is rich in calcium and iron, supporting bone health and preventing anemia. It is a gluten-free grain that provides dietary fiber. Its complex carbohydrates offer sustained energy.

Benefits

Rich in calcium and iron, supporting bone health and preventing anemia.

Ginger
Good

Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It aids in digestion and can help alleviate nausea. Ginger also supports immune function.

Benefits

Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, aiding digestion and supporting immune function.

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Ground Spices
Good

Ground spices like coriander, cumin, and fennel add flavor and have antioxidant properties. They support digestion and may have anti-inflammatory effects. Spices enhance the culinary experience without adding calories.

Benefits

Antioxidant properties and support digestion, enhancing flavor without adding calories.

Mustard Seed
Good

Mustard seeds are rich in selenium and magnesium, supporting metabolic health. They have anti-inflammatory properties and can aid in digestion. Mustard seeds add flavor and nutritional value to dishes.

Benefits

Rich in selenium and magnesium, supporting metabolic health and aiding digestion.

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Cumin Seed
Good

Cumin seeds are known for their digestive benefits and antioxidant properties. They support immune function and may help regulate blood sugar levels. Cumin adds flavor and nutritional value to dishes.

Benefits

Digestive benefits and antioxidant properties, supporting immune function.

Dried Garlic
Good

Dried garlic is known for its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. It supports heart health and boosts the immune system. Garlic adds flavor and nutritional value to dishes.

Benefits

Antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, supporting heart health and immune function.

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Ground Black Pepper
Good

Ground black pepper enhances flavor and aids in the absorption of nutrients like curcumin. It has antioxidant properties and supports digestion. Black pepper is a staple spice with health benefits.

Benefits

Aids in nutrient absorption and supports digestion with antioxidant properties.

Dried Curry Leaves
Good

Dried curry leaves are rich in antioxidants and support digestive health. They add flavor and aroma to dishes. Curry leaves may also support liver health and reduce oxidative stress.

Benefits

Rich in antioxidants, supporting digestive and liver health.

Water
Neutral

Water is a neutral ingredient that serves as a base for the dish. It is essential for cooking and hydration but does not contribute significant nutritional value. It is free from calories and additives.

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Salt
Neutral

Salt is used for seasoning and preserving food. It is essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function. Excessive consumption can lead to high blood pressure.

Risks

Excessive consumption can lead to high blood pressure.

Benefits

Essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function.

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Green Chili
Neutral

Green chili adds spice and flavor to dishes. It contains capsaicin, which may boost metabolism. However, it does not provide significant nutritional benefits.

Risks

May cause irritation in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Contains capsaicin, which may boost metabolism.

Lemon Juice Powder
Neutral

Lemon juice powder adds a tangy flavor and provides vitamin C. It is used as a flavoring agent but does not offer significant nutritional benefits. The processing may reduce some of its natural benefits.

Benefits

Provides vitamin C and adds tangy flavor.

See more about Lemon Juice Powder →
Sunflower Oil
Very Bad

Sunflower oil is a seed oil high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can promote inflammation. It is often refined, losing beneficial nutrients. Its high omega-6 content may disrupt the omega-3 to omega-6 balance.

Risks

High omega-6 content may promote inflammation when consumed in excess.

See more about Sunflower Oil →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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