Tag: Ben s original

Ben's original Ready Rice Creamy Four Cheese is **not** gluten-free due to the inclusion of wheat-based vermicelli pasta in its ingredients. While some of the brand's other rice products are gluten-free, this specific creamy four cheese recipe is not suitable for those with celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity.

Did you know that Uncle Ben's, now known as Ben's Original, has been a top-selling rice brand since the 1940s? The key to its consistent, fluffy texture lies in its unique parboiling process, which clarifies exactly what type of rice is Uncle Ben's original.

According to the ingredient labels on various formulations, most versions of Ben's Original Fine Herbs and Wild Rice are not gluten free. While natural rice is inherently gluten-free, the flavored seasoning packets in these mixes often contain gluten-derived ingredients that pose a risk for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

According to the brand's own information, the iconic orange box of Ben's Original (formerly Uncle Ben's) converted rice is a type of white rice. The grains appear translucent and firm, a result of a special parboiling process that helps infuse nutrients from the husk back into the grain before it is milled.

In 2020, Uncle Ben's was officially rebranded as Ben's Original, but its GMO status continues to be a common question for consumers. The answer is nuanced and depends on the specific product, with some varieties explicitly stating the presence of bioengineered ingredients while others remain non-GMO.

With over 70 years of history, the brand now known as Ben's Original has become a staple in many kitchens, lauded for its consistency and ease of preparation. However, the quality of 'Ben's rice' varies significantly depending on the specific product, from classic parboiled rice to ready-to-eat pouches.

Thanks to its unique parboiling process, the original version of Ben's Original (formerly Uncle Ben's) rice retains a significant amount of its B vitamins and iron, nutrients often lost in regular white rice milling. But is this convenience food truly a healthy staple for your diet?

According to Ben's Original's ingredient list and allergy information, the company has stated that certain varieties contain gluten or are processed in a facility that handles gluten. This means that while rice is naturally gluten-free, it is crucial to verify if Ben's cilantro lime rice is gluten free to ensure safety for those with celiac disease or sensitivities.

According to a 2025 report from Healthy Babies, Bright Futures, arsenic was found in 100% of 145 rice samples tested, highlighting a widespread issue across many brands, including Ben's Original (formerly Uncle Ben's). This has led many consumers to question, does Uncle Ben's rice contain arsenic? The short answer is yes, like virtually all rice, it contains some level of naturally occurring inorganic arsenic.

While all pure, unprocessed rice is naturally gluten-free, the crucial factor for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities is the manufacturing process and potential for cross-contamination. In 2020, the brand formerly known as Uncle Ben's rebranded to Ben's Original, but its flagship products like Original Long Grain Rice largely retained their gluten-free status.