Calories in Brown Rice Syrup: Nutritional facts for Brown Rice Syrup Types
Brown rice syrup is a liquid sweetener derived from culturing cooked rice with enzymes to break down the starches into sugars. The caloric content of brown rice syrup is comparable to other liquid sweeteners, with a small 84g serving containing 300 calories, and a tablespoon (21g) supplies 75 calories.
An examination of the nutrient composition of brown rice syrup shows a profile consisting mostly of carbohydrates, specifically maltose and glucose. A single tablespoon (21g) offers 18g of total carbohydrates and 0g of dietary fiber while containing 11g of sugar. Research highlights its metabolic impact, such as the study by Jeukendrup, A. E. (2004), "Carbohydrate intake during exercise and performance," which examines the efficacy of glucose-based sweeteners for athletic recovery.
Given the high glycemic index, nutritionists recommend consuming this sweetener in strict moderation. A prudent daily allowance consists of one teaspoon of brown rice syrup (25 calories), functioning as a specialized ingredient rather than a staple food source. Burning the 25 calories from a single teaspoon (7g) of brown rice syrup requires minor physical activities 4 minutes of shoveling snow, 6 minutes of raking leaves, or 4 minutes of moving furniture.
Brown rice syrup is a sweetener that appears frequently in health-focused and Asian cuisines, used as a binder and glaze. It is essential for the Granola Bars at Cafe Gratitude and serves as a key ingredient in the Teriyaki Glaze at Yoshinoya. It also sweetens the Macrobiotic Bowl at Erewhon Market. The ingredient originated in East Asia as "mizuame" or "yeot" and is primarily produced and consumed in China, the United States, and India. The price of the base ingredient has risen noticeably over the last two decades, with the Producer Price Index for confectionery materials increasing from 162.7 in 2015 to 314.407 in 2024, while retail costs for a standard jar climbed from $4.50 to $8.99.
Brown Rice Syrup nutrition
| Stats | Weight |
|---|---|
| Carbs | 144 grams |
| Protein | 0 grams |
| Fats | 0 grams |
| Sugars | 88 grams |
- Large Brown Rice Syrup Calories (Nutritional Facts)
- Medium Brown Rice Syrup Calories (Nutritional Facts)
- Small Brown Rice Syrup Calories (Nutritional Facts)
- Raw Brown Rice Syrup Nutrition
- Sodium in Brown Rice Syrup
- Potassium in Brown Rice Syrup
- Sugar in Brown Rice Syrup
- Fiber in Brown Rice Syrup
- Protein in Brown Rice Syrup
- Carbs in Brown Rice Syrup
- Fat in Brown Rice Syrup
- Vitamins in Brown Rice Syrup
- Minerals in Brown Rice Syrup
Large Brown Rice Syrup Calories (Nutritional Facts)
A large serving of Brown Rice Syrup (336g or 1 cup) contains 1200 calories, 0g of protein (0% DV), 0g of fat (0% DV), 288g of carbohydrates (105% DV), 0g of fiber (0% DV), 176g of sugar, and 0mg of sodium (0% DV). A large serving of Organic Brown Rice Syrup (336g or 1 cup) provides 1200 calories, 0g of protein (0% DV), 0g of fat (0% DV), 288g of carbohydrates (105% DV), 0g of fiber (0% DV), 176g of sugar, and 10mg of sodium (0% DV).
A medium portion of Brown Rice Syrup (168g or 0.5 cup) provides 600 calories, 0g of protein (0% DV), 0g of fat (0% DV), 144g of carbohydrates (52% DV), 0g of fiber (0% DV), 88g of sugar, and 0mg of sodium (0% DV). A medium portion of Organic Brown Rice Syrup (168g or 0.5 cup) supplies 600 calories, 0g of protein (0% DV), 0g of fat (0% DV), 144g of carbohydrates (52% DV), 0g of fiber (0% DV), 88g of sugar, and 5mg of sodium (0% DV).
A small serving of Brown Rice Syrup (84g or 0.25 cup) contains 300 calories, 0g of protein (0% DV), 0g of fat (0% DV), 72g of carbohydrates (26% DV), 0g of fiber (0% DV), 44g of sugar, and 0mg of sodium (0% DV). A small serving of Organic Brown Rice Syrup (84g or 0.25 cup) provides 300 calories, 0g of protein (0% DV), 0g of fat (0% DV), 72g of carbohydrates (26% DV), 0g of fiber (0% DV), 44g of sugar, and 2.5mg of sodium (0% DV).
A single tablespoon of Brown Rice Syrup (21g) contains 75 calories, 0g of protein (0% DV), 0g of total fat (0% DV), 18g of total carbohydrate (7% DV), 0g of dietary fiber (0% DV), 11g of total sugars (22% DV), and 0mg of sodium (0% DV). The syrup provides 0mcg of Vitamin A (0% DV), 0mg of Vitamin C (0% DV), 0mg of iron (0% DV), 0mg of calcium (0% DV), and 15mg of potassium (0% DV).
A large serving of Brown Rice Syrup (336g or 1 cup) contains 0mg of sodium (0% DV), while a large serving of Organic Brown Rice Syrup (336g or 1 cup) provides 10mg of sodium (0% DV). A medium portion of Brown Rice Syrup (168g or 0.5 cup) has 0mg of sodium (0% DV), whereas a medium portion of Organic Brown Rice Syrup (168g or 0.5 cup) supplies 5mg of sodium (0% DV). A small serving of Brown Rice Syrup (84g or 0.25 cup) contains 0mg of sodium (0% DV), and a small serving of Organic Brown Rice Syrup (84g or 0.25 cup) provides 2.5mg of sodium (0% DV).
A large serving of Brown Rice Syrup (336g or 1 cup) provides 240mg of potassium (5% DV), while a large serving of Organic Brown Rice Syrup (336g or 1 cup) contains 240mg of potassium (5% DV). A medium portion of Brown Rice Syrup (168g or 0.5 cup) has 120mg of potassium (3% DV), whereas a medium portion of Organic Brown Rice Syrup (168g or 0.5 cup) supplies 120mg of potassium (3% DV). A small serving of Brown Rice Syrup (84g or 0.25 cup) contains 60mg of potassium (1% DV), and a small serving of Organic Brown Rice Syrup (84g or 0.25 cup) provides 60mg of potassium (1% DV).
A large serving of Brown Rice Syrup (336g or 1 cup) contains 176g of sugar, while a large serving of Organic Brown Rice Syrup (336g or 1 cup) provides 176g of sugar. A medium portion of Brown Rice Syrup (168g or 0.5 cup) has 88g of sugar, whereas a medium portion of Organic Brown Rice Syrup (168g or 0.5 cup) supplies 88g of sugar. A small serving of Brown Rice Syrup (84g or 0.25 cup) contains 44g of sugar, and a small serving of Organic Brown Rice Syrup (84g or 0.25 cup) provides 44g of sugar.
A large serving of Brown Rice Syrup (336g or 1 cup) provides 0g of dietary fiber (0% DV), while a large serving of Organic Brown Rice Syrup (336g or 1 cup) contains 0g of fiber (0% DV). A medium portion of Brown Rice Syrup (168g or 0.5 cup) has 0g of fiber (0% DV), whereas a medium portion of Organic Brown Rice Syrup (168g or 0.5 cup) supplies 0g of fiber (0% DV). A small serving of Brown Rice Syrup (84g or 0.25 cup) contains 0g of fiber (0% DV), and a small serving of Organic Brown Rice Syrup (84g or 0.25 cup) provides 0g of fiber (0% DV).
A large serving of Brown Rice Syrup (336g or 1 cup) provides 0g of protein (0% DV), while a large serving of Organic Brown Rice Syrup (336g or 1 cup) contains 0g of protein (0% DV). A medium portion of Brown Rice Syrup (168g or 0.5 cup) has 0g of protein (0% DV), whereas a medium portion of Organic Brown Rice Syrup (168g or 0.5 cup) supplies 0g of protein (0% DV). A small serving of Brown Rice Syrup (84g or 0.25 cup) contains 0g of protein (0% DV), and a small serving of Organic Brown Rice Syrup (84g or 0.25 cup) provides 0g of protein (0% DV).
A large serving of Brown Rice Syrup (336g or 1 cup) contains 288g of carbohydrates (105% DV), while a large serving of Organic Brown Rice Syrup (336g or 1 cup) provides 288g of carbohydrates (105% DV). A medium portion of Brown Rice Syrup (168g or 0.5 cup) has 144g of carbohydrates (52% DV), whereas a medium portion of Organic Brown Rice Syrup (168g or 0.5 cup) supplies 144g of carbohydrates (52% DV). A small serving of Brown Rice Syrup (84g or 0.25 cup) contains 72g of carbohydrates (26% DV), and a small serving of Organic Brown Rice Syrup (84g or 0.25 cup) provides 72g of carbohydrates (26% DV).
A large serving of Brown Rice Syrup (336g or 1 cup) contains 0g of total fat (0% DV), while a large serving of Organic Brown Rice Syrup (336g or 1 cup) provides 0g of total fat (0% DV). A medium portion of Brown Rice Syrup (168g or 0.5 cup) has 0g of total fat (0% DV), whereas a medium portion of Organic Brown Rice Syrup (168g or 0.5 cup) supplies 0g of total fat (0% DV). A small serving of Brown Rice Syrup (84g or 0.25 cup) contains 0g of total fat (0% DV), and a small serving of Organic Brown Rice Syrup (84g or 0.25 cup) provides 0g of total fat (0% DV).
A large serving of Brown Rice Syrup (336g or 1 cup) provides 0mcg of Vitamin A (0% DV) and 0mg of Vitamin C (0% DV). A large serving of Organic Brown Rice Syrup (336g or 1 cup) contains 0mcg of Vitamin A (0% DV) and 0mg of Vitamin C (0% DV). A medium portion of Brown Rice Syrup (168g or 0.5 cup) has 0mcg of Vitamin A (0% DV), whereas a medium portion of Organic Brown Rice Syrup (168g or 0.5 cup) supplies 0mcg of Vitamin A (0% DV). A small serving of Brown Rice Syrup (84g or 0.25 cup) contains 0mcg of Vitamin A (0% DV), and a small serving of Organic Brown Rice Syrup (84g or 0.25 cup) provides 0mcg of Vitamin A (0% DV).
A large serving of Brown Rice Syrup (336g or 1 cup) provides 0mg of calcium (0% DV) and 0mg of iron (0% DV). A large serving of Organic Brown Rice Syrup (336g or 1 cup) contains 0mg of calcium (0% DV) and 0mg of iron (0% DV). A medium portion of Brown Rice Syrup (168g or 0.5 cup) has 0mg of calcium (0% DV), whereas a medium portion of Organic Brown Rice Syrup (168g or 0.5 cup) supplies 0mg of calcium (0% DV). A small serving of Brown Rice Syrup (84g or 0.25 cup) contains 0mg of calcium (0% DV), and a small serving of Organic Brown Rice Syrup (84g or 0.25 cup) provides 0mg of calcium (0% DV).
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What are the Types of Brown Rice Syrups?
The types of Brown Rice Syrups include Traditional Brown Rice Syrup, Clarified Rice Syrup, and Organic Brown Rice Syrup. The table below details the nutritional distinctions.
| Type | Description | Calories (Per 100g) | Calorie Qualifications |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Traditional Brown Rice Syrup
|
Amber-colored liquid produced by fermenting cooked rice with enzymes. | 357 | The standard concentration of maltose and complex sugars defines the energy density. |
|
Clarified Rice Syrup
|
Filtered version with color and distinct rice flavor removed. | 360 | The removal of particulate matter slightly increases the sugar concentration per volume. |
|
Organic Brown Rice Syrup
|
Produced from organically grown rice without synthetic pesticides. | 357 | The caloric content remains identical to the traditional variety as the macronutrients are unchanged. |
What are the Desserts With Brown Rice Syrup?
Brown rice syrup functions as a binding agent in vegan and health-focused confections, providing a crisp texture without the excessive sweetness of sucrose. Bakers utilize the liquid to hold together granola bars and crisped rice treats. The sweetener appears extensively in macrobiotic desserts and allergy-friendly pastries. The following list identifies sweet treats and snacks that feature this syrup as a primary ingredient.
| Dish Name | Calories | Type of Brown Rice Syrup | Carbs (g) | Sugar (g) | Protein (g) | Fat (g) | Cuisine | Restaurants |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Vegan Rice Crispy Treat
|
280 | Organic Brown Rice Syrup | 45 | 18 | 2 | 8 | American | Cafe Gratitude (Los Angeles, CA) |
|
Macrobiotic Granola Bar
|
220 | Traditional Brown Rice Syrup | 32 | 12 | 5 | 9 | Health Food | Erewhon Market (Los Angeles, CA) |
|
Sesame Crunch Bar
|
190 | Traditional Brown Rice Syrup | 18 | 10 | 4 | 12 | Middle Eastern/Fusion | Seed + Mill (New York, NY) |
|
Almond Butter Cups
|
250 | Organic Brown Rice Syrup | 22 | 14 | 6 | 16 | American | Unwin (National Retail) |
|
Vegan Pecan Pie
|
410 | Traditional Brown Rice Syrup | 55 | 28 | 4 | 22 | Southern/Vegan | Souley Vegan (Oakland, CA) |
|
Oatmeal Raisin Cookie
|
180 | Organic Brown Rice Syrup | 28 | 12 | 3 | 6 | American | Whole Foods Market |
|
Chocolate Avocado Mousse
|
240 | Clarified Rice Syrup | 25 | 15 | 3 | 14 | Fusion | True Food Kitchen |
|
Energy Balls
|
150 | Traditional Brown Rice Syrup | 18 | 8 | 4 | 7 | Health Food | Juice Press |
|
Coconut Macaroons
|
160 | Organic Brown Rice Syrup | 15 | 10 | 1 | 10 | French/Vegan | Le Pain Quotidien |
|
Gluten-Free Brownie
|
320 | Organic Brown Rice Syrup | 42 | 24 | 4 | 15 | American | Erin McKenna's Bakery (National) |
|
Sweet Potato Pie
|
350 | Traditional Brown Rice Syrup | 48 | 22 | 5 | 14 | Southern | Stuff I Eat (Inglewood, CA) |
|
Matcha Mochi Cake
|
210 | Clarified Rice Syrup | 35 | 16 | 3 | 5 | Japanese/Fusion | Third Culture Bakery (Berkeley, CA) |
|
Tahini Cookies
|
190 | Traditional Brown Rice Syrup | 20 | 9 | 4 | 11 | Mediterranean | Goldie (Philadelphia, PA) |
|
Raw Cacao Truffles
|
120 | Organic Brown Rice Syrup | 12 | 6 | 2 | 8 | Raw Food | SunLife Organics |
|
Vegan Caramel Corn
|
260 | Traditional Brown Rice Syrup | 38 | 20 | 2 | 10 | American | Pop Zero (National Retail) |
What are the Main Dishes With Brown Rice Syrup?
Brown rice syrup serves as a glazing agent in savory Asian and fusion dishes, adding sheen and mild sweetness without overpowering delicate flavors. The liquid thickens sauces for stir-fries and marinades for grilled meats. Chefs incorporate the sweetener into Korean barbecue sauces and teriyaki glazes. The list below specifies unique savory recipes that integrate this ingredient.
| Dish Name | Calories | Type of Brown Rice Syrup | Carbs (g) | Sugar (g) | Protein (g) | Fat (g) | Cuisine | Restaurants |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Korean Fried Chicken
|
850 | Traditional Brown Rice Syrup | 65 | 18 | 45 | 42 | Korean | Bonchon |
|
Teriyaki Salmon Bowl
|
620 | Clarified Rice Syrup | 55 | 12 | 38 | 24 | Japanese/Fusion | True Food Kitchen |
|
Bibimbap (Gochujang Sauce)
|
720 | Traditional Brown Rice Syrup | 85 | 10 | 25 | 28 | Korean | Gogung (New York, NY) |
|
Vegan Orange Chicken
|
580 | Organic Brown Rice Syrup | 68 | 22 | 18 | 20 | Chinese-American | Veggie Grill |
|
Mongolian Beef
|
750 | Traditional Brown Rice Syrup | 45 | 15 | 42 | 48 | Chinese-American | P.F. Chang's |
|
Tteokbokki
|
680 | Traditional Brown Rice Syrup | 110 | 18 | 12 | 10 | Korean | Yup Dduk (National) |
|
Glazed Tempeh Stir-Fry
|
450 | Organic Brown Rice Syrup | 35 | 8 | 22 | 18 | Vegan | Native Foods |
|
Sweet and Sour Pork
|
820 | Clarified Rice Syrup | 75 | 24 | 30 | 45 | Chinese | Panda Express |
|
BBQ Pulled Jackfruit
|
380 | Traditional Brown Rice Syrup | 48 | 14 | 8 | 12 | Vegan | The Butcher's Daughter (New York, NY) |
|
Miso Glazed Cod
|
420 | Traditional Brown Rice Syrup | 18 | 9 | 35 | 22 | Japanese | Nobu |
|
Galbi (Short Ribs)
|
950 | Traditional Brown Rice Syrup | 25 | 12 | 65 | 68 | Korean | Kang Ho Dong Baekjeong (National) |
|
Unagi Don (Eel Bowl)
|
650 | Traditional Brown Rice Syrup | 82 | 14 | 28 | 18 | Japanese | Sushi Gen (Los Angeles, CA) |
|
Sticky Garlic Wings
|
780 | Traditional Brown Rice Syrup | 42 | 16 | 45 | 48 | Korean | Kyochon (National) |
|
General Tso's Tofu
|
520 | Clarified Rice Syrup | 55 | 18 | 24 | 22 | Chinese-American | Chef Kenny's Asian Vegan (Las Vegas, NV) |
|
Honey Walnut Shrimp
|
720 | Clarified Rice Syrup | 45 | 15 | 22 | 48 | Chinese-American | Din Tai Fung |
What Cuisines Do Prefer Brown Rice Syrup Most?
East Asian culinary traditions, particularly Korean and Japanese, utilize rice-based sweeteners as a foundational pantry item. The syrup functions as a key component in glazing meats and sweetening fermented pastes. Modern macrobiotic and vegan cuisines also favor the ingredient for the mild flavor and plant-based origin. The table below highlights the particular culinary heritages that make use of this syrup.
| Cuisine | Dish | Types of Brown Rice Syrup | Calories (Estimate) | Restaurant(s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Korean Cuisine
|
Gangjeong (Fried Chicken) | Traditional Brown Rice Syrup (Yeot) | 850 | Bonchon |
|
Japanese Cuisine
|
Teriyaki Glaze | Clarified Rice Syrup (Mizuame) | 620 | Yoshinoya |
|
Macrobiotic Cuisine
|
Grain Bowls | Organic Brown Rice Syrup | 450 | Souen (New York, NY) |
|
Vegan Cuisine
|
Granola Bars | Organic Brown Rice Syrup | 280 | Cafe Gratitude (California) |
|
Chinese Cuisine
|
Mooncakes | Traditional Brown Rice Syrup | 350 | Kee Wah Bakery (National) |
|
Health Food
|
Energy Balls | Organic Brown Rice Syrup | 150 | Juice Press |
|
Fusion Cuisine
|
Glazed Salmon | Clarified Rice Syrup | 580 | True Food Kitchen |
|
Vietnamese Cuisine
|
Caramelized Pork | Traditional Brown Rice Syrup | 650 | The Slanted Door (San Francisco, CA) |
|
Taiwanese Cuisine
|
Braised Pork Rice | Traditional Brown Rice Syrup | 720 | Formosa Cafe (West Hollywood, CA) |
|
Raw Food Cuisine
|
Cacao Desserts | Organic Brown Rice Syrup | 220 | SunLife Organics |
|
Gluten-Free Cuisine
|
Baked Goods | Organic Brown Rice Syrup | 320 | Erin McKenna's Bakery (National) |
|
Thai Cuisine
|
Mee Krob | Traditional Brown Rice Syrup | 420 | Jitlada (Los Angeles, CA) |
|
Indonesian Cuisine
|
Sweet Soy Sauce (Sub) | Traditional Brown Rice Syrup | 45 | Simpang Asia (Los Angeles, CA) |
|
Hawaiian Cuisine
|
Spam Musubi Glaze | Traditional Brown Rice Syrup | 380 | L&L Hawaiian Barbecue |
|
Modern American
|
BBQ Sauce | Organic Brown Rice Syrup | 60 | Native Foods |
Which Countries Produce the Most Brown Rice Syrups?
China functions as the leading manufacturer of rice-based sweeteners, leveraging massive domestic rice cultivation to supply global industrial demand. The United States ranks as a significant producer of organic and premium brown rice syrups, particularly within California's rice-growing regions. India and Pakistan also contribute substantial volumes to the supply chain, processing surplus rice crops into value-added syrups. The table below shows the estimated production of glucose syrups and rice sweeteners in thousand metric tonnes for the top producing nations over the last two decades.
| Country | 2004 | 2009 | 2014 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| China | 2,800 | 4,200 | 6,500 | 8,100 | 8,300 | 8,600 | 8,800 | 9,100 |
| United States | 1,500 | 1,650 | 1,800 | 1,950 | 1,980 | 2,050 | 2,100 | 2,150 |
| India | 450 | 600 | 950 | 1,200 | 1,250 | 1,350 | 1,450 | 1,550 |
| Indonesia | 320 | 410 | 550 | 680 | 700 | 720 | 750 | 780 |
| Thailand | 280 | 350 | 480 | 590 | 610 | 630 | 650 | 670 |
| South Korea | 210 | 240 | 280 | 310 | 315 | 320 | 325 | 330 |
| Japan | 190 | 200 | 210 | 220 | 215 | 218 | 220 | 225 |
| Vietnam | 150 | 210 | 320 | 450 | 470 | 490 | 510 | 530 |
Which Countries Consume the Most Brown Rice Syrups?
China absorbs the largest volume of the product, utilizing the syrup in confectionery manufacturing and traditional cooking. The United States maintains high consumption rates driven by the health food sector and the demand for gluten-free sweeteners in processed foods. South Korea and Japan utilize the ingredient extensively in domestic kitchens for sauces and marinades. The table below shows the domestic consumption of rice sweeteners and syrups in thousand metric tonnes for key markets over the last two decades.
| Country | 2004 | 2009 | 2014 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| China | 2,600 | 3,900 | 6,100 | 7,600 | 7,800 | 8,100 | 8,300 | 8,500 |
| United States | 1,400 | 1,550 | 1,700 | 1,850 | 1,900 | 1,950 | 2,000 | 2,050 |
| India | 420 | 580 | 900 | 1,150 | 1,200 | 1,300 | 1,400 | 1,500 |
| South Korea | 200 | 230 | 270 | 300 | 305 | 310 | 315 | 320 |
| Japan | 180 | 190 | 200 | 210 | 205 | 208 | 210 | 215 |
| Indonesia | 300 | 380 | 520 | 650 | 670 | 690 | 720 | 750 |
| Germany | 120 | 140 | 160 | 180 | 185 | 190 | 195 | 200 |
| United Kingdom | 90 | 110 | 130 | 150 | 155 | 160 | 165 | 170 |
How Do Prices of Brown Rice Syrup-Including Dishes Change?
Menu prices for items containing brown rice syrup have risen as a result of escalating grain, workforce, and facility costs. The table below illustrates price adjustments for selected items at well-known establishments.
| Brand/Restaurant | Dish | Old Price | Current Price (2024/2025) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bonchon | Soy Garlic Wings (Small) | $11.95 (2014) | $18.95 - $21.29 |
| True Food Kitchen | Teriyaki Quinoa Bowl | $14.00 (2015) | $18.95 - $21.00 |
| P.F. Chang's | Mongolian Beef | $15.95 (2013) | $28.00 - $31.69 |
What is the Brown Rice Syrup Calorie for 100 Grams?
A 100g serving of Brown Rice Syrup provides 357 calories, while a 100g serving of Organic Brown Rice Syrup supplies 357 calories.
What is the Brown Rice Syrup Calorie for 1 KG?
One kilogram (1000g) of Brown Rice Syrup supplies 3570 calories, whereas one kilogram (1000g) of Organic Brown Rice Syrup provides 3570 calories.
What is the Calorie of 1 Brown Rice Syrup?
A single tablespoon of Brown Rice Syrup (21g) contains 75 calories, while a single teaspoon of Brown Rice Syrup (7g) provides 25 calories. Retail brands offer distinct energy profiles, as a serving of Lundberg Family Farms Organic Brown Rice Syrup (21g) contains 75 calories. A serving of Nature's Flavors Organic Brown Rice Syrup (21g) provides 75 calories, whereas a serving of Biona Organic Brown Rice Syrup (21g) supplies 74 calories.
What are the Health Benefits of Brown Rice Syrup?
Brown rice syrup functions as a fructose-free sweetener composed primarily of maltose and maltotriose, offering a distinct metabolic profile compared to sucrose or high-fructose corn syrup. The liquid provides a rapid source of glucose-based energy for athletes and individuals with specific digestive sensitivities. The following points highlight these particular physiological advantages.
- Provides Fructose-Free Energy: The sweetener consists almost entirely of glucose polymers, making the product suitable for individuals with fructose malabsorption. Research by Stanhope, K. L., et al. (2009), "Consuming fructose-sweetened, not glucose-sweetened, beverages increases visceral adiposity and lipids and decreases insulin sensitivity in overweight/obese humans," suggests that avoiding fructose reduces liver strain and visceral fat accumulation.
- Supports Athletic Performance: High-glycemic carbohydrates replenish glycogen stores rapidly after intense physical exertion. A study by Jeukendrup, A. E. (2004), "Carbohydrate intake during exercise and performance," confirmed that glucose-based sources oxidize efficiently to fuel muscle contraction during prolonged activity.
- Reduces Allergen Exposure: Manufacturers often produce the syrup using enzymatic fermentation without barley malt, creating a gluten-free option for celiac patients. Research by Thompson, T. (2001), "Wheat starch, gliadin, and the gluten-free diet," highlighted the importance of alternative carbohydrate sources for maintaining energy intake in gluten-sensitive populations.
What are the Downsides of Brown Rice Syrup?
Brown rice syrup poses risks regarding arsenic contamination and an extremely high glycemic index when consumed in excess. Nutritionists advise limiting intake to one teaspoon (7g) per day and choosing Maple Syrup as a lower-glycemic alternative to mitigate potential risks. The table below illustrates specific adverse health consequences.
- Contains Inorganic Arsenic: Rice plants absorb arsenic from the soil, which concentrates in the syrup during processing. A study by Jackson, B. P., et al. (2012), "Arsenic, organic foods, and brown rice syrup," found detectable levels of inorganic arsenic in commercial products containing this sweetener.
- Spikes Blood Sugar: The high glycemic index of 98 causes rapid surges in blood glucose and insulin levels. Research by Atkinson, F. S., et al. (2008), "International tables of glycemic index and glycemic load values: 2008," classified rice syrups among the highest glycemic sweeteners available.
- Lacks Essential Nutrients: The processing removes the fiber and majority of minerals found in the whole grain, resulting in empty calories. A study by Swinburn, B. A., et al. (2009), "Increased food energy supply is more than sufficient to explain the US epidemic of obesity," identified calorically dense, nutrient-poor foods as primary drivers of weight gain.
Are Brown Rice Syrups Good for You?
No, brown rice syrups are not good for health because the extremely high glycemic index disrupts blood sugar regulation and the potential for arsenic contamination poses toxicity risks, despite the lack of fructose. Metabolic health suffers due to the rapid absorption of glucose which demands an immediate insulin response as explored by Atkinson, F. S., et al. (2008), "International tables of glycemic index and glycemic load values: 2008." Toxicology concerns arise from the concentration of heavy metals found in rice-based concentrates as confirmed by Jackson, B. P., et al. (2012), "Arsenic, organic foods, and brown rice syrup." Liver health benefits slightly from the absence of fructose compared to other sweeteners as detailed in the study by Stanhope, K. L., et al. (2009), "Consuming fructose-sweetened, not glucose-sweetened, beverages increases visceral adiposity and lipids and decreases insulin sensitivity in overweight/obese humans," but this does not negate the systemic impact of the high glucose load.
How Does Calorie Change According to Brown Rice Syrup Types?
Caloric content stays relatively uniform across various preparations because the basic glucose polymer structure changes very little. Clarified Rice Syrup possesses a slightly elevated energy density per 100g because filtration eliminates trace non-sugar particulates. Traditional Brown Rice Syrup and Organic Brown Rice Syrup present an identical nutritional profile since the cultivation technique impacts pesticide residue rather than energy count. Producers occasionally modify water levels to change thickness, acting as the main variable affecting slight caloric differences among brands.
What is the Origin of Brown Rice Syrup?
Ancient civilizations in East Asia developed the method of saccharifying rice starch using enzymes from sprouted barley malt around 500 AD. The Japanese termed this sweetener "mizuame," while Koreans referred to the thick paste as "yeot," utilizing the ingredient to preserve fruits and glaze dishes long before the availability of refined cane sugar. Traditional production involved cooking brown rice and barley malt together, then straining the liquid and reducing the volume over heat to create a viscous amber syrup. The macrobiotic movement in the mid-20th century popularized the sweetener in the West as a "natural" alternative to refined sugars, leading to widespread commercial production in the United States and Europe.