Uncle Bens

Ben's Original Spicy Chilli Packet Rice

Barcode 5010034014268

Yes — Ben's Original Spicy Chilli Packet Rice is ultra-processed.

This product is classified as ultra-processed (UPF) because it contains industrial additives and formulations, specifically natural flavouring and citric acid (listed as acid (citric acid)). According to the NOVA system and the provided rules, natural flavouring is an extracted, industrial flavour additive, and citric acid is an isolated additive used for acidity regulation/preservation. The presence of any such UPF ingredients makes the whole product UPF, even though many other ingredients (rice, vegetables, oil, spices) are minimally processed.

Ingredients

2 ultra-processed markers

OK

steamed parboiled long grain rice

A common long-grain rice that has been steamed and parboiled, resulting in firmer texture and reduced cooking time.
OK

red pepper (bell pepper)

A sweet, crisp red bell pepper pick or fresh pepper used for color, flavor, and nutrition; typically eaten raw or cooked.
OK

sunflower oil

A neutral-tasting culinary oil pressed from sunflower seeds, rich in unsaturated fats and commonly used for frying and dressings.
OK

chilli paste (chilies, salt)

A simple paste made from ground chilies and salt; a basic processed spice paste used for heat and flavor.
UPF

natural flavouring

A generic flavoring ingredient derived from natural sources used to impart aroma or taste; may include essential oils or extracts.
OK

sugar

Granulated sugar derived from sugarcane or sugar beets; a basic, single-ingredient sweetener.
OK

onion powder

Dried and ground onion used as a seasoning to impart onion flavor.
OK

garlic powder

Dried, ground garlic used as a convenient, concentrated form of garlic flavoring in cooking.
OK

salt

Common mineral compound (sodium chloride) used as a seasoning and preservative across cuisines.
UPF

citric acid

A sour-tasting organic acid used as an acidulant and preservative in foods. Commonly added in small amounts to adjust acidity.
OK

cayenne powder

Ground cayenne pepper, a common dried spice used to add heat.

Common questions about Ben's Original Spicy Chilli Packet Rice

Is Ben's Original Spicy Chilli Packet Rice ultra-processed?

Yes — Ben's Original Spicy Chilli Packet Rice by Uncle Bens is ultra-processed, so it counts as a UPF (ultra-processed food). This product is classified as ultra-processed (UPF) because it contains industrial additives and formulations, specifically natural flavouring and citric acid (listed as acid (citric acid)). According to the NOVA system and the provided rules, natural flavouring is an extracted, industrial flavour additive, and citric acid is an isolated additive used for acidity regulation/preservation. The presence of any such UPF ingredients makes the whole product UPF, even though many other ingredients (rice, vegetables, oil, spices) are minimally processed.

Which ingredients in Ben's Original Spicy Chilli Packet Rice are ultra-processed?

Nomi flags 2 ingredients in Ben's Original Spicy Chilli Packet Rice as ultra-processed markers: natural flavouring, citric acid. See the full ingredient breakdown above for what each one is.

What does "ultra-processed" (UPF) mean?

Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are industrial formulations made with ingredients and additives you wouldn't find in a home kitchen — such as emulsifiers, artificial flavourings, colourings and modified starches. The classification is based on the NOVA system used by researchers and dietitians worldwide.

How can I check whether other foods are ultra-processed?

Scan any barcode — or photograph the ingredients label — with the free Nomi app for iOS and Android. You'll get an instant ultra-processed verdict with every ingredient explained in plain English.

Product information comes from public databases and Nomi's own analysis, and may contain errors. Always check the packaging. Ultra-processed classification is based on the NOVA food processing system.