The Legacy of Converted Parboiled Rice
Ben's Original's most famous product is its Converted rice, a type of parboiled long-grain rice developed in the 1940s. The 'converting' or parboiling process involves steam-sealing the rice in a vacuum, which drives vitamins and minerals from the outer husk into the inner rice kernel. This results in several distinct benefits that set it apart from standard white rice.
- Enhanced Nutrition: The process retains over 80% of the natural nutrients found in the whole grain, including iron and B vitamins, which would otherwise be lost during standard milling.
- Fluffy, Separate Grains: The parboiling treatment removes excess surface starch, preventing the grains from sticking together and resulting in a consistently fluffy, separate texture. This makes it an ideal choice for dishes like pilafs, salads, and entrees.
- Improved Cooking Performance: Converted rice is more forgiving during cooking, as the firmer grains are less likely to overcook or turn mushy. It is also more resistant to pests than untreated rice.
How Ben's Converted Rice is Made
The unique process for making Ben's Original Converted rice involves three main steps:
- Steaming: The raw, un-milled rice is pressure-steamed, which pushes nutrients from the bran layer into the starchy endosperm.
- Vacuum-drying: The rice is then dried in a vacuum, which hardens the kernels and ensures the nutrients remain locked inside.
- Milling: Finally, the rice is milled to remove the bran and germ, resulting in a nutrient-enriched, easy-to-cook white rice.
The Extensive Product Line: Beyond Converted Rice
Ben's Original has expanded far beyond its flagship product to meet modern consumer needs, offering a variety of formats and flavors.
Convenient and Quick-Cook Options
For those with busy lifestyles, Ben's Original offers several convenient products:
- Ready Rice: These microwavable pouches are pre-cooked and can be heated in just 90 seconds, making them one of the fastest and easiest options for a side dish or meal base. Varieties include Long Grain White, Whole Grain Brown, and Coconut Jasmine.
- Ready Cups: Similar to Ready Rice, these single-serve cups are perfect for quick snacks or individual meals. They are available in both plain and flavored varieties.
- Boil-In-Bag: This classic convenience product allows for easy stovetop cooking with no measuring or mess, with the rice cooked directly in a heat-safe bag.
Dry Plain Rice Varieties
For traditional cooking, Ben's Original provides a range of dry, un-seasoned rice types:
- Long Grain White Rice: Besides the Converted version, they offer a standard long-grain white rice for traditional recipes.
- Whole Grain Brown Rice: A healthier, whole grain option available in dry form for stovetop or rice cooker preparation.
- Jasmine and Basmati: Aromatic rice varieties that bring a touch of specific regional flavors to home cooking.
Flavored and Global Inspirations
To add variety and flavor to meals, Ben's Original offers a selection of seasoned rice and grain blends:
- Flavored Grains: These blends feature unique combinations like the classic Long Grain & Wild Rice or more modern flavor combinations.
- International-Inspired Flavors: The brand offers various globally inspired rice, available in both ready-to-heat and dry formats, such as Mexican Fiesta Rice and Spanish Style Rice.
A Comparison of Ben's Original Rice Varieties
To help you decide which rice is right for your meal, here is a quick comparison of some of the brand's core offerings.
| Variety | Cooking Method | Texture | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Converted Long Grain White | Stovetop, Instant Pot, Oven | Fluffy, separated grains | Parboiled for extra nutrition and non-stickiness. |
| Ready Rice (Various) | Microwave (90 seconds) | Varies by flavor (e.g., Fluffy, Soft) | Pre-cooked for ultimate convenience and speed. |
| Whole Grain Brown | Stovetop, Instant Pot, Oven | Chewier, nuttier grains | High in fiber and a whole grain option. |
| Jasmine | Stovetop, Rice Cooker | Soft, slightly sticky, aromatic | Distinctly fragrant, ideal for Southeast Asian cuisine. |
| Basmati | Stovetop, Rice Cooker | Long, slender, nutty, aromatic | Fragrant long grain, commonly used in Indian dishes. |
| Long Grain & Wild Blend | Stovetop | Chewy, mixed textures | A medley of rice types with herbs and spices. |
The Rebranding of Uncle Ben's to Ben's Original
In 2020, following a commitment to create a more inclusive future, Mars, Inc., the owner of the brand, announced the evolution of the brand's identity. The change from Uncle Ben's to Ben's Original was enacted to remove associations with racial stereotypes tied to the brand's former image and name. The rebranding was part of a larger effort to address historical inequities and create a more equitable environment. Mars, Inc. also committed significant investment into creating opportunities for students and communities, inspired by their new brand purpose to offer everyone a seat at the table. This change began rolling out on packaging in 2021, and the new name and logo are now widely available. For more on the brand's history and its evolution, you can visit the official Ben's Original website.
Conclusion
Ben's Original (formerly Uncle Ben's) provides a diverse selection of rice products to suit any culinary need. From the firm, non-sticky grains of its classic Converted rice to the speedy convenience of Ready Rice pouches and the wholesome goodness of Whole Grain Brown rice, the brand caters to different cooking styles and preferences. The extensive range also includes aromatic jasmine and basmati rices, along with various flavorful blends. The rebrand to Ben's Original reflects a new brand identity focused on inclusivity while maintaining the commitment to quality that has been a hallmark of the company for decades.
