Ben's Original Ready Rice White Rice Microwavable Pouch - 8.8oz
Summary
This product features beneficial ingredients such as parboiled long grain rice and essential vitamins and minerals, which contribute to its nutritional value. However, the presence of canola oil, a seed oil with potential inflammatory effects, slightly detracts from its overall healthiness. Despite this, the product remains minimally processed, which supports a higher rating.
At a glance
Key ingredients 8
WaterNeutral
Water is a neutral ingredient used as a solvent and to aid in cooking. It does not contribute any calories or nutrients to the product. Its presence is essential for the preparation and texture of the rice.
See more about Water →Parboiled long grain riceGood
Parboiled long grain rice is a minimally processed whole grain that retains more nutrients than regular white rice. The parboiling process helps preserve vitamins and minerals, making it a healthier option. It provides a good source of carbohydrates and some fiber.
Benefits
Provides a good source of energy and essential nutrients like B vitamins and minerals.
Canola oilVery Bad
Canola oil is a seed oil with a high omega-6 fatty acid content, which can promote inflammation when consumed in excess. It is often highly processed and refined, which may reduce its nutritional quality. Compared to healthier oils like olive or avocado oil, canola oil is less beneficial.
Risks
High omega-6 content may promote inflammation when consumed in excess.
Calcium carbonateGood
Calcium carbonate is used as a calcium supplement to fortify foods and improve nutritional value. It helps support bone health and prevent calcium deficiency. It is a common and effective way to increase calcium intake in diets.
Risks
Excessive intake may lead to hypercalcemia or kidney stones.
Benefits
Supports bone health and helps prevent calcium deficiency.
Vitamin D3Good
Vitamin D3 is an essential nutrient that supports bone health and immune function. It is often added to foods to help meet dietary requirements, especially in populations with limited sun exposure. It enhances calcium absorption, contributing to stronger bones.
Risks
Excessive intake can lead to toxicity, causing hypercalcemia.
Benefits
Supports bone health and enhances calcium absorption.
Iron (ferric pyrophosphate)Good
Iron (ferric pyrophosphate) is used to fortify foods and prevent iron deficiency anemia. It is a bioavailable form of iron that helps improve hemoglobin levels and oxygen transport in the body. Fortification with iron is crucial for populations at risk of deficiency.
Risks
Excessive iron intake can cause gastrointestinal issues and toxicity.
Benefits
Prevents iron deficiency anemia and supports oxygen transport in the body.
Thiamine mononitrateGood
Thiamine mononitrate is a form of vitamin B1 used to fortify foods and support energy metabolism. It is essential for converting carbohydrates into energy and maintaining proper nerve function. Fortification helps prevent thiamine deficiency, especially in processed foods.
Benefits
Supports energy metabolism and nerve function.
Folic acidGood
Folic acid is a synthetic form of vitamin B9 used to fortify foods and prevent neural tube defects during pregnancy. It is crucial for DNA synthesis and cell division. Fortification with folic acid is important for women of childbearing age.
Risks
Excessive intake may mask vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms.
Benefits
Prevents neural tube defects and supports DNA synthesis.
Processing
Unprocessed or Minimally Processed Foods
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