PoorgrainRice A Roni· 2 oz (56 g /about 1/3 cup dry rice-bean mix & 1-1/3 Tbsp seasoning mix
Rice A Roni Rice-A-Roni Red Bean & Rice 5 Ounce Paper Box
Rice A Roni Rice-A-Roni Red Bean & Rice scores 39/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. Its low score is primarily driven by its **ultra-processed nature** and **high sodium content**, despite providing some fiber and protein.
This product received a FoodScore of 39/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
It contains 7.8g of fiber and 11.5g of protein per 100g, contributing positively to its score.
A significant concern is the high sodium content at 1369.64mg per 100g.
As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed, unlike a generic whole-grain equivalent.
Portion control is important due to the sodium and processing level.
Scores -8 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
7.8g
28% of Daily Value
Protein
11.5g
23% of Daily Value
Added sugar
2.77g
6% of Daily Value
Sodium
1369.64mg
60% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (7.8g)+10
Protein (11.5g)+7
Micronutrients (Potassium, Iron, Phosphorus, Vitamin A, Vitamin C)+10
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (2.8g)-1
Sodium (1369.6mg)-7
Trans fat present-20
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 39
Rice A Roni Rice-A-Roni Red Bean & Rice earns a FoodScore of 39/100, categorized as Poor. The product receives positive points for its fiber content (7.8g per 100g) and protein content (11.5g per 100g), which are beneficial for satiety and digestive health. Additionally, it provides notable amounts of potassium, iron, vitamin A, and vitamin C, contributing to its micronutrient bonus. However, several factors significantly penalize its score. The presence of trans fat, even in small amounts (0.01g per 100g), incurs a substantial penalty. Its classification as a NOVA class 4 food indicates it is ultra-processed, which negatively impacts its score. The high sodium content, at 1369.64mg per 100g, is another major detractor, far exceeding recommended daily limits for a single serving. While it contains a small amount of added sugar (2.77g per 100g), this also contributes to a minor penalty. Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, this product contains more sodium and is significantly more processed.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in rice a roni rice-a-roni red bean & rice 5 ounce paper box actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
This product provides 7.8g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for maintaining digestive regularity and can help with feelings of fullness. Including fiber-rich foods in the diet supports overall gut health. While Rice A Roni Red Bean & Rice offers fiber, it is still important to consume a variety of fiber sources from whole foods.
Contains Plant-Based Protein
With 11.5g of protein per 100g, this product offers a notable amount of plant-based protein, primarily from the rice and red beans. Protein is essential for muscle repair, growth, and various bodily functions. Incorporating sufficient protein into meals can help with satiety. This can be a convenient way to add protein to a meal, especially for those looking for plant-forward options.
Provides Essential Micronutrients
Rice A Roni Red Bean & Rice contains several micronutrients, including iron (20% DV), vitamin A (33% DV), and vitamin C (21% DV) per 100g. Iron is crucial for oxygen transport in the blood, while vitamins A and C support immune function and vision. These contributions can help meet daily nutrient needs, particularly when combined with other nutrient-dense foods.
Rice A Roni Rice-A-Roni Red Bean & Rice scores 39/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. Its low score is primarily driven by its ultra-processed nature and high sodium content, despite providing some fiber and protein.
How to eat it
Rice A Roni Red Bean & Rice is typically consumed as a side dish or a quick meal base. It is designed for convenience, requiring minimal preparation. A common portion is around 1/3 cup dry mix, which expands significantly when cooked. Be mindful of the sodium content when pairing with other foods.
To reduce the overall sodium per meal, pair a smaller portion of Rice A Roni with a large serving of unsalted steamed vegetables.
Boost the protein content by adding lean chicken, shrimp, or extra beans to the prepared dish.
Consider using low-sodium broth instead of water during preparation to further manage sodium intake.
Use this product as an occasional convenience item rather than a daily staple to help manage intake of processed ingredients.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high sodium content in Rice A Roni Red Bean & Rice, which is 1369.64mg per 100g. Individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those on sodium-restricted diets should consume this product sparingly. The ingredient list includes hydrolyzed soy protein and hydrolyzed wheat protein, indicating the presence of common allergens soy and wheat. Those with sensitivities or allergies to these ingredients should avoid this product. The product also contains disodium inosinate and disodium guanylate, which are flavor enhancers often used in ultra-processed foods. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may prefer to limit intake of such additives.
Rice A Roni Red Bean & Rice scores 39/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. While it provides some fiber and protein, its ultra-processed nature and high sodium content are significant nutritional drawbacks. It is not considered a healthy staple for regular consumption.
How does Rice A Roni compare to a generic rice and bean dish?
Compared to a generic homemade rice and bean dish, Rice A Roni Red Bean & Rice is significantly higher in sodium and is classified as ultra-processed. A homemade version would allow for control over salt, added sugars, and the type of ingredients, typically resulting in a more nutrient-dense meal.
What is 'natural flavor' in this product?
Natural flavor is a broad term for ingredients derived from a natural source (like a spice, fruit, vegetable, or meat) whose primary function is flavoring rather than nutrition. The specific components are not disclosed on the label, but they contribute to the product's overall taste profile.
What is a reasonable portion size for this product?
The declared serving size is 2 oz (56g) dry mix, which yields a larger cooked portion. Given the high sodium content, it's advisable to stick to this serving size or even smaller, especially if you are consuming other high-sodium foods in the same meal or day. Consider it a component of a larger, balanced meal.
Can I add vegetables to Rice A Roni Red Bean & Rice?
Yes, adding fresh or frozen vegetables is an excellent way to enhance the nutritional value of Rice A Roni Red Bean & Rice. This can increase the fiber and micronutrient content of your meal and help dilute the sodium per bite. Consider adding bell peppers, spinach, or corn during cooking.
Is Rice A Roni Red Bean & Rice suitable for a vegetarian diet?
While the primary ingredients are rice and red beans, the ingredient list specifies chicken fat. Therefore, Rice A Roni Red Bean & Rice is not suitable for a vegetarian or vegan diet. Consumers seeking plant-based options should look for products explicitly labeled as vegetarian or vegan.