AvoiddairyRice A Roni· 2 oz (56 g/about 1/3 cup dry rice-pasta mix & 2/3 Tbsp seasoning mix)
Rice A Roni Herb & Butter 7.2 Ounce Box
Rice A Roni Herb & Butter scores 22/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **ultra-processed nature** and **high sodium content**, despite some micronutrient fortification.
FoodScore: 22/100 (Avoid).
Contains 1380.36mg sodium per 100g, contributing to a significant penalty.
Classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Provides 17% DV for iron and 16% DV for Vitamin A per 100g.
Higher in sodium and lower in fiber compared to a generic dairy equivalent.
Scores -11 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
2.2g
8% of Daily Value
Protein
8.38g
17% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
1380.36mg
60% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.2g)+1
Protein (8.4g)+4
Micronutrients (Iron, Vitamin A)+4
−
What holds it back
Sodium (1380.4mg)-7
Trans fat present-20
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 22
Rice A Roni Herb & Butter receives a FoodScore of 22 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is heavily influenced by several factors. A significant penalty of -7 is applied due to its high sodium content, which is 1380.36mg per 100g. The presence of trans fat, even in small amounts (0.01g per 100g), incurs a substantial -20 penalty. Furthermore, its classification as NOVA 4 signifies it is an ultra-processed food, leading to an additional -10 penalty. While the product does contain some beneficial nutrients, such as 2.2g of fiber and 8.38g of protein per 100g, earning +1 and +4 bonuses respectively, these are outweighed by the penalties. The fortification with iron (3.07mg, 17% DV) and Vitamin A (16% DV) also contributes a +4 bonus. The ingredient list includes palm oil, which is a source of saturated fat, and various other components like natural flavor and corn syrup solids, typical of ultra-processed items. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, this product is considerably higher in sodium and contains less beneficial dairy components.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in rice a roni herb & butter 7.2 ounce box actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Iron
This product is fortified with iron, providing 3.07mg per 100g, which is 17% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral involved in oxygen transport and energy metabolism. For individuals seeking to increase their iron intake, Rice A Roni Herb & Butter can contribute to daily requirements, though it should be considered within the context of a balanced diet that includes other iron-rich foods.
Contains Vitamin A
Rice A Roni Herb & Butter provides 16% of the Daily Value for Vitamin A per 100g. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin important for vision, immune function, and cell growth. While this product offers a source of Vitamin A, it is important to consume a variety of fruits and vegetables to ensure adequate intake of this and other essential vitamins.
Provides Protein
With 8.38g of protein per 100g, this product contributes to daily protein intake. Protein is crucial for muscle repair and growth, as well as for the production of enzymes and hormones. While not a primary protein source, it can supplement protein intake when combined with other protein-rich foods in a meal.
Rice A Roni Herb & Butter scores 22/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its ultra-processed nature and high sodium content, despite some micronutrient fortification.
How to eat it
Rice A Roni Herb & Butter is typically consumed as a side dish with meals, often alongside meat or poultry. A common portion is about 1/3 cup dry mix, which expands significantly when prepared. It is designed for quick preparation, making it a convenient option for busy individuals.
To reduce the overall sodium content of your meal, consider preparing Rice A Roni Herb & Butter with low-sodium broth instead of water and omitting any additional salt.
Pair this dish with a large serving of non-starchy vegetables like steamed broccoli or a side salad to increase fiber and micronutrient intake.
Use a smaller portion of the prepared rice and pasta mix, perhaps half of the recommended serving, and combine it with a lean protein source such as grilled chicken or fish to create a more balanced meal.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high sodium content in Rice A Roni Herb & Butter, which is 1380.36mg per 100g. Individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with hypertension, may need to limit consumption. The product contains several common allergens, including wheat, milk, and soy, as indicated by ingredients like wheat flour, lactose, butter, and hydrolyzed soy protein. Those with sensitivities or allergies to these ingredients should avoid this product. The presence of artificial colors, specifically Yellow 5 and Yellow 6, may be a concern for some individuals, particularly parents of young children who may wish to limit artificial food dyes in their diet.
Based on its FoodScore of 22/100, Rice A Roni Herb & Butter is categorized as 'Avoid'. This is primarily due to its ultra-processed nature, high sodium content, and the presence of trans fats. While it provides some iron and Vitamin A, these do not outweigh the nutritional drawbacks for regular consumption.
How does Rice A Roni Herb & Butter compare to plain rice?
Compared to plain white rice, Rice A Roni Herb & Butter is significantly higher in sodium (1380.36mg vs. virtually 0mg in plain rice) and contains added fats and flavorings. Plain rice, such as a generic long-grain white rice, would typically have a much higher FoodScore due to its minimal processing and lack of high sodium or trans fats.
What is 'natural flavor' in Rice A Roni Herb & Butter?
The term 'natural flavor' on an ingredient list, as seen in Rice A Roni Herb & Butter, refers to flavorings derived from a natural source, such as a spice, fruit, vegetable, or meat. While derived from natural sources, these are often highly processed compounds added to enhance taste, and their specific composition is not disclosed on the label.
What is a reasonable portion size for this product?
The declared serving size for Rice A Roni Herb & Butter is 2 oz (56g) dry mix, which yields a larger cooked portion. Given its high sodium content, a reasonable approach might be to consume half of the recommended serving as a side dish, or to balance it with other low-sodium components in your meal.
Can I make Rice A Roni Herb & Butter with less butter?
The preparation instructions for Rice A Roni Herb & Butter typically call for adding butter. While the product itself contains butter as an ingredient, you can reduce the amount of additional butter or use a healthier oil alternative during preparation to lower the overall fat content of the dish.