NEAR EAST ORIGINAL RICE PILAF MIX, ORIGINAL scores 43/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **high sodium content** and classification as a processed food.
FoodScore: 43/100 (Poor), indicating a product with significant nutritional drawbacks.
Contains 1380.36mg of sodium per 100g, a primary concern for daily intake.
Provides 8.93g of protein per 100g, contributing to satiety.
Classified as NOVA 3 (processed), distinguishing it from less processed grain options.
Best consumed in moderation and paired with fresh, low-sodium ingredients.
Scores -4 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
1.8g
6% of Daily Value
Protein
8.93g
18% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
1380.36mg
60% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (1.8g)+1
Protein (8.9g)+4
−
What holds it back
Sodium (1380.4mg)-7
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 43
NEAR EAST ORIGINAL RICE PILAF MIX, ORIGINAL receives a FoodScore of 43/100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. The primary factor contributing to this score is its high sodium content, which stands at 1380.36mg per 100g. This amount significantly exceeds recommended daily limits and incurs a substantial penalty of -7 points. The product is also classified as NOVA 3, indicating it is a processed food, which results in a -5 point penalty. While the product does offer some nutritional benefits, these are not enough to offset the penalties. It receives +1 point for its 1.8g of fiber and +4 points for its 8.93g of protein per 100g. However, the ingredient list, including salt and autolyzed yeast extract, contributes to the elevated sodium levels. Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, this product contains significantly more sodium and less fiber, making it a less optimal choice for regular consumption.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in near east original rice pilaf mix, original actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
A Source of Protein
NEAR EAST ORIGINAL RICE PILAF MIX, ORIGINAL provides 8.93g of protein per 100g. Protein is an essential macronutrient that supports muscle maintenance and repair, and contributes to feelings of fullness. While not a primary protein source, it can contribute to your daily protein intake when combined with other protein-rich foods in a meal.
Provides Some Fiber
With 1.8g of fiber per 100g, this pilaf mix offers a modest amount of dietary fiber. Fiber is important for digestive health and can help regulate blood sugar levels. While this amount is not high, it is a positive contribution, especially when compared to refined grain products that offer little to no fiber.
Convenient Meal Base
This product can serve as a convenient and quick-cooking base for meals, which can be helpful for individuals with limited time for meal preparation. Its ease of preparation can encourage home cooking, potentially leading to more balanced meals when paired with fresh vegetables and lean protein sources, rather than relying on less nutritious convenience options.
NEAR EAST ORIGINAL RICE PILAF MIX, ORIGINAL scores 43/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its high sodium content and classification as a processed food.
How to eat it
NEAR EAST ORIGINAL RICE PILAF MIX, ORIGINAL is typically prepared as a side dish, often accompanying roasted meats or vegetables. A common portion size is around 2 ounces (dry mix), which yields about a half-cup cooked. The main pitfall is often consuming it without balancing its sodium content with other meal components.
To mitigate the high sodium, pair this pilaf with unsalted or low-sodium proteins like plain grilled chicken or fish.
Increase the fiber and nutrient content by stirring in a generous amount of fresh or frozen vegetables during cooking, such as peas, carrots, or spinach.
Consider using half a packet and supplementing with plain rice or quinoa to reduce the overall sodium per serving.
Use as a base for a meal by adding a source of lean protein and plenty of non-starchy vegetables to create a more nutritionally complete dish.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals monitoring their sodium intake should be particularly mindful of NEAR EAST ORIGINAL RICE PILAF MIX, ORIGINAL due to its high sodium content (1380.36mg per 100g). The product contains wheat flour and durum wheat flour, meaning it contains gluten and is not suitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. While the ingredient list does not contain common allergens like milk, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, or egg, cross-contamination is always a possibility in manufacturing facilities. The presence of autolyzed yeast extract can contribute to the savory flavor but also adds to the overall sodium content.
Is NEAR EAST ORIGINAL RICE PILAF MIX, ORIGINAL a healthy choice?
NEAR EAST ORIGINAL RICE PILAF MIX, ORIGINAL scores 43/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. Its high sodium content is a significant nutritional drawback, making it less ideal for regular consumption. While it provides some protein and fiber, these benefits are outweighed by the sodium and its classification as a processed food.
How does NEAR EAST ORIGINAL RICE PILAF MIX, ORIGINAL compare to other rice mixes?
Compared to other flavored rice mixes like Uncle Ben's Ready Rice, NEAR EAST ORIGINAL RICE PILAF MIX, ORIGINAL may have similar sodium levels, which are generally high across this category. For a healthier alternative, consider plain brown rice or quinoa, which offer more fiber and significantly less sodium without added ingredients.
What is 'autolyzed yeast extract' in the ingredient list?
Autolyzed yeast extract is a flavor enhancer derived from yeast. It naturally contains glutamates, which contribute to an umami flavor profile, similar to MSG. While generally recognized as safe, it adds to the overall sodium content of the product and can be a concern for those sensitive to free glutamates.
What is a reasonable portion size for this pilaf mix?
A reasonable portion size for NEAR EAST ORIGINAL RICE PILAF MIX, ORIGINAL is typically around 2 ounces (dry mix), yielding about a half-cup cooked. Given its high sodium content, it's advisable to consume it in moderation and balance it with other low-sodium components in your meal.
Can I make this pilaf mix lower in sodium?
While you cannot remove the sodium already in the mix, you can reduce the overall sodium of your meal by not adding any additional salt during preparation. You can also dilute the sodium by mixing the prepared pilaf with plain, unsalted rice or by adding a large volume of fresh, unsalted vegetables.