Nationwide Warning Issued Over Recalled Rice Products

A nationwide alert has been issued after Ben’s Original Ready Rice products were recalled across the United States due to potential contamination with small, naturally occurring stones.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) confirmed the voluntary recall on October 10, 2025, warning consumers that the stones could cause oral or digestive tract injuries if ingested.

How the Recall Began

The recall was initiated by Ben’s Original, a subsidiary of Mars Food, following an internal quality inspection that identified small stones in certain packages. These materials were traced back to the rice farm from which the grains were sourced.

Although only a limited number of products were affected, the company opted for a nationwide voluntary recall out of what it called “an abundance of caution.”.

Products Included in the Recall

According to the FDA announcement, the recall covers three varieties of Ben’s Original Ready Rice: Long Grain White, Whole Grain Brown, and Long Grain & Wild.

The affected batches include codes 533ELGRV22, 534ALGRV22, 534AMGRV22, 534BMGRV22, 534DMGRV22, 533BMGRV22, 533CLGRV22, and 533CMGRV22. All impacted products carry a best-by date of August 2026, printed on the bottom seal of the back of the package.

The FDA emphasized that no other Ben’s Original products are affected.

Retailers and Distribution

The affected products were sold through major retailers, including Target, Amazon, H-E-B, United Markets, and Piggly Wiggly, with additional distribution handled by Associated Grocers, C&S, and Dot Foods between August and September 2025.

Media reports added that while the listed stores received confirmed shipments, “impacted retailers are not limited to those named” because other distributors may have passed the products on to smaller grocery chains.

Health Risks and FDA Warning

Though no injuries or illnesses have been reported, the FDA’s safety alert warns that even tiny stones can pose a risk of mouth or digestive injuries if consumed. Experts note that hard foreign materials in food can cause damage to teeth or internal injury, particularly in children or older adults.

The FDA continues to monitor reports and encourages anyone who experiences a reaction or injury to submit a complaint through its MedWatch portal.

Company Response

In its public statement, Ben’s Original emphasized its commitment to transparency, calling the contamination “an isolated issue limited to these batches.” The company confirmed that all affected lots are being pulled from shelves and that it has enhanced its inspection protocols to prevent a recurrence.

Consumers who purchased any of the affected products are advised not to eat them and to contact Ben’s Original Consumer Care at 1-800-548-6253 for returns.

Regulatory Oversight

The FDA classified the case as a voluntary Class II recall, meaning the products could cause temporary or medically reversible health issues if consumed. The agency commended Ben’s Original for acting quickly and stated that proactive recalls like this one demonstrate how federal oversight and corporate cooperation protect consumer safety.

Consumer Guidance

Customers are urged to check batch codes and expiration dates before consuming any Ben’s Original Ready Rice. The codes can be found along the bottom edge of the package’s back seal. Products matching the affected codes should be immediately discarded and not eaten.

Consumers can reach out to Ben’s Original Consumer Care at 1-800-548-6253 for questions or additional guidance. The FDA also encourages anyone who experiences a reaction or injury to report it through its official recall database.

Broader Food Safety Context

The rice recall follows several other high-profile product safety alerts this year involving frozen vegetables, dairy, and pet foods. Food safety experts point out that even with modern processing systems, natural contaminants like stones or plant matter can occasionally slip through the supply chain.

The incident underscores the importance of transparency in recall procedures and the vigilance required from both companies and regulators to maintain public confidence in food safety standards.

A Reminder for Consumers

The nationwide recall of Ben’s Original Ready Rice serves as a timely reminder of the importance of checking product details before consumption. While no injuries have been reported, the FDA’s swift alert and Ben’s Original’s transparent response have helped minimize potential harm.

Consumers are urged to remain alert, verify batch codes, and follow official guidance, ensuring safety starts right in the pantry.