Is Grits Ultra Processed?
Not Typically Ultra-Processed
Grits are minimally processed. Traditional grits are simply dried corn kernels ground to a coarse texture, similar to polenta. They are one of the least processed grain products available commercially.
Key Findings
- •Traditional grits contain a single ingredient: ground dried corn kernels
- •Stone-ground grits retain more of the corn germ and hull, providing additional fiber and nutrients
- •Instant and flavored varieties may include additives that increase the processing level significantly
Why Is Grits Level 1?
Stone-ground or traditional grits are made by grinding dried corn kernels, a straightforward mechanical process that has been used for centuries. The corn may be treated with lime in the case of hominy grits (nixtamalization), which is an ancient preparation technique rather than modern industrial processing. The resulting product contains just ground corn with no added sugars, preservatives, or artificial ingredients. Instant grits may contain additional additives, but traditional grits remain a minimally processed staple.
Grits Processing Level Distribution
How 677 grits products break down by processing level:
Average ingredient count: 16.3 · Average nutrition score: 6.9/10
Grits Brand Comparison
Comparing the least to most processed grits products in our database:
| Product | Brand | Level | Score | Ingredients |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stone Ground Grits, Stone Ground | Bruce Julian | Processing Level: 1 out of 4 - Minimally Processed | 1.0 | 1 |
| Stone Ground Yellow Grits, Yellow | Lamb's | Processing Level: 1 out of 4 - Minimally Processed | 1.0 | 1 |
| Bob's Red Mill, Whole Grain Millet Grits | Bob's Red Mill | Processing Level: 1 out of 4 - Minimally Processed | 1.0 | 1 |
| Purple Rice Grits | Congaree and Penn | Processing Level: 1 out of 4 - Minimally Processed | 1.0 | 1 |
| Gluten Free Corn Grits | Bob's Red Mill | Processing Level: 1 out of 4 - Minimally Processed | 1.0 | 1 |
| Stone Ground Grits, Stone Ground | Bruce Julian | Processing Level: 1 out of 4 - Minimally Processed | 1.0 | 1 |
| Stone Ground Grits, Stone Ground | Southern City Flavors | Processing Level: 1 out of 4 - Minimally Processed | 1.0 | 1 |
| Polenta Corn Grits | Bob's Red Mill | Processing Level: 1 out of 4 - Minimally Processed | 1.0 | 1 |
| Organic White Corn Grits | War Eagle Mill | Processing Level: 1 out of 4 - Minimally Processed | 1.0 | 1 |
| Jupiter Rice Grits | Congaree and Penn | Processing Level: 1 out of 4 - Minimally Processed | 1.0 | 1 |
How to Read Grits Labels
- 1
Look for "stone-ground" or "whole grain" on the label for the least processed versions
- 2
Check the ingredient list — traditional grits should list only ground corn or hominy
- 3
Avoid instant grits if seeking minimal processing, as they may contain added sodium, flavors, or preservatives
- 4
Note whether the product is "hominy grits" (nixtamalized corn) or "corn grits" (simply ground corn) — both are minimally processed
Frequently Asked Questions
Are grits processed food?
Traditional grits are minimally processed (level 1). They are simply ground dried corn, one of the most basic forms of grain processing. Instant or flavored varieties may be more heavily processed.
Are grits healthy to eat?
Grits are a whole grain or near-whole grain product (depending on the variety) that provides carbohydrates, some protein, and B vitamins. Stone-ground versions retain the most nutritional value. Nutritional impact depends largely on preparation and toppings.
What is the difference between grits and polenta?
Both are ground corn products. Grits are traditionally made from white dent corn ground to a coarser texture, while polenta uses yellow flint corn ground finer. Both are minimally processed.
Are instant grits as healthy as regular grits?
Instant grits are more heavily processed to reduce cooking time and may contain added sodium or other ingredients. Stone-ground or regular grits retain more of the whole corn kernel and have a simpler ingredient list.