Near East Garlic & Herb Rice Pilaf Mix 6.3 Ounce Paper Box

Common questions

Is Near East Garlic & Herb Rice Pilaf Mix 6.3 Ounce Paper Box healthy?

Near East Garlic & Herb Rice Pilaf Mix 6.3 Ounce Paper Box scores 60/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This rice pilaf mix is ultra-processed, which limits its score despite containing some beneficial ingredients like olive oil, garlic, and herbs.

How processed is Near East Garlic & Herb Rice Pilaf Mix 6.3 Ounce Paper Box?

Near East Garlic & Herb Rice Pilaf Mix 6.3 Ounce Paper Box is NOVA Group 4: Ultra-Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Near East Garlic & Herb Rice Pilaf Mix 6.3 Ounce Paper Box's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Garlic, Olive oil, Onions count in its favor; Natural flavor, Autolyzed yeast extract, Soy protein are flagged as ingredients of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Near East Garlic & Herb Rice Pilaf Mix 6.3 Ounce Paper Box

Near East
Bioengineered
60 Fair

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

$30.36 · 6.3 oz · 12 pack · $0.40 / ounce
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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 6
Harmful ingredients 4
Owned by PepsiCo
Category Rice
Summary

This rice pilaf mix is ultra-processed, which limits its score despite containing some beneficial ingredients like olive oil, garlic, and herbs. The presence of processed ingredients such as autolyzed yeast extract, soy protein, and natural flavors contributes to its lower rating. While it includes some natural and nutritious components, the overall processing level and use of flavor enhancers impact its healthiness.

Key ingredients 14

Olive oil
Very Good

Olive oil is a high-quality monounsaturated fat with anti-inflammatory properties. It contains antioxidants that support heart health. Cold-pressed extraction preserves beneficial compounds.

Benefits

Rich in monounsaturated fats that support heart health and provide anti-inflammatory properties.

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Garlic
Good

Garlic is known for its potential health benefits, including antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It is a natural ingredient that adds flavor and nutritional value. Dried garlic retains many of its beneficial compounds.

Benefits

May support immune function and cardiovascular health.

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Onions
Good

Onions are a natural source of vitamins and antioxidants. They add flavor and nutritional value to dishes. Dried onions retain many beneficial compounds.

Benefits

May support immune function and provide antioxidants.

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Parsley
Good

Parsley is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and provides antioxidants. It is a natural herb that enhances flavor and nutritional value. Dried parsley retains many of its beneficial nutrients.

Benefits

Provides vitamins and antioxidants that support overall health.

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Herbs
Good

Herbs like thyme, oregano, and rosemary are rich in antioxidants and add flavor. They are natural ingredients that enhance the nutritional profile of dishes. Dried herbs retain many beneficial compounds.

Benefits

Provide antioxidants and enhance flavor.

Tomatoes
Good

Tomatoes are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants like lycopene. They add flavor and nutritional value to dishes. Dried tomatoes retain many beneficial nutrients.

Benefits

May support heart health and provide antioxidants.

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Rice
Neutral

Rice is a staple carbohydrate source providing energy. It is minimally processed and generally well-tolerated. However, it lacks significant micronutrients compared to whole grains.

Benefits

Provides a source of carbohydrates for energy.

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Orzo
Neutral

Orzo is made from wheat flour and serves as a carbohydrate source. It is a refined grain, which means it lacks the fiber and nutrients found in whole grains. It is commonly used in pasta dishes.

Risks

May contribute to blood sugar spikes due to its refined nature.

Benefits

Provides carbohydrates for energy.

Salt
Neutral

Salt is used to enhance flavor and preserve food. It is a refined ingredient without additional trace minerals. Excessive consumption can lead to health issues like hypertension.

Risks

High sodium intake can increase the risk of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative.

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Soy sauce
Neutral

Soy sauce is used for flavoring and contains soybeans, wheat, and salt. It is a fermented product that adds umami flavor. High sodium content can be a concern for some individuals.

Risks

High sodium content may contribute to hypertension if consumed in excess.

Benefits

Adds umami flavor and contains some beneficial compounds from fermentation.

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Natural flavor
Bad

Natural flavors are often used to enhance taste but can be highly processed. They lack transparency in terms of specific ingredients used. This can be concerning for individuals with allergies or sensitivities.

Risks

Potential allergen risk due to undisclosed ingredients.

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Autolyzed yeast extract
Bad

Autolyzed yeast extract is used as a flavor enhancer and contains glutamates. It is a processed ingredient that can contribute to high sodium intake. Some individuals may be sensitive to glutamates.

Risks

May cause reactions in individuals sensitive to glutamates.

Benefits

Enhances umami flavor in foods.

See more about Autolyzed yeast extract →
Soy protein
Bad

Soy protein is a processed ingredient used to boost protein content. It lacks the amino acid profile of animal-based proteins. Some individuals may have allergies or sensitivities to soy.

Risks

May cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Provides a plant-based protein source.

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Soy lecithin
Bad

Soy lecithin is used as an emulsifier and is a processed ingredient. It is derived from soybeans and may contain allergens. It is not a significant source of nutrients.

Risks

May cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to soy.

See more about Soy lecithin →

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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