Red Bean & Rice Mix

Why Does This Score Highly Processed?

In our analysis, Red Bean & Rice Mix scores Highly Processed. That classification is shaped by ingredients commonly associated with ultra-processed foods:

• Modified Proteins (Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein (Corn, Soy, Wheat)): Extensive modification indicates UPF.
• Natural Flavors (Natural Hickory Smoke Flavor (Salt, Natural Flavor)): Despite being natural, these are highly processed extracts.

Within Boxed Dinners & Sides, this product is more processed than about 25% of the 4,145 products we've analyzed.

Processing classification reflects ingredient and additive analysis, not a judgment of any product's safety, quality, or healthfulness.

What These Ingredients Tell Us

We group Red Bean & Rice Mix's ingredients into ingredient categories and note how each relates to food processing. The notes below describe the category, not this specific product's formulation.

Synthetic VitaminsProcessing indicator

In this product: Enriched Parboiled Rice [Rice (Niacin, Iron (Ferric Orthophosphate), Thiamin Mononitrate, Folic Acid]).

Fortification often compensates for processing losses.

Salt & SodiumProcessing indicator

In this product: Salt.

Basic preservative, but high amounts indicate processing.

Processed Vegetable ProductsProcessing indicator

In this product: Dehydrated Vegetables (Onion, Bell Pepper, Garlic).

Extracts and powders indicate processing.

Sugars & Natural SweetenersProcessing indicator

In this product: Dextrose.

Natural sugars acceptable in moderation, excessive amounts indicate UPF.

Industrial FermentationProcessing indicator

In this product: Inactive Baker'S Yeast.

Industrial fermentation for additive production.

Natural ColorsProcessing indicator

In this product: Caramel Color.

Natural sources but still indicate processing.

Anti-Caking AgentsProcessing indicator

In this product: Less Than 2% Silicon Dioxide (For Anti-Caking).

Common in powdered processed foods.