Ben’s Original™ Recalls Select Ready Rice Products Over Possible Small Stones Contamination

Ben’s Original recall: quick summary

Ben’s Original™ has voluntarily recalled select lots of its Long Grain White, Whole Grain Brown, and Long Grain & Wild Ready Rice due to the possible presence of small, naturally occurring stones from the rice farm. Announced on October 10, 2025, the recall affects limited batches sold through HEB, Target, Amazon, United Markets, and Piggly Wiggly. The recall affects no other Ben’s Original™ products, and the company has reported no injuries. Consumers should not eat the affected rice and may contact Ben’s Original Consumer Care for a return or refund, as part of the brand’s commitment to safety and transparency.

What happened?

On October 10, 2025, Ben’s Original™ voluntarily recalled certain Ready Rice products after discovering that some batches might contain small, naturally occurring stones originating from the rice farm. Internal quality checks identified the issue, prompting the company to act swiftly out of an abundance of caution.

Between August and September 2025, Associated Grocers, C&S, and Dot Foods distributed the affected products to multiple U.S. retailers, including HEB, Target, Amazon, United Markets, and Piggly Wiggly.

This is an isolated issue, and all other Ben’s Original™ products remain safe to consume.

Affected products

Brand	Product	Size	Batch Code	Best By Date	Retailers	Issue	Distribution
Ben’s Original™	Ready Rice Long Grain White	8.8 oz	533ELGRV22, 534ALGRV22	08/2026	HEB	Small stones	U.S. nationwide
Ben’s Original™	Ready Rice Whole Grain Brown	8.8 oz	534AMGRV22, 534BMGRV22, 534DMGRV22	08/2026	Target, HEB	Small stones	U.S. nationwide
Ben’s Original™	Ready Rice Long Grain & Wild	8.8 oz	533BMGRV22, 533CLGRV22, 533CMGRV22	08/2026	HEB, Amazon, United Markets, Piggly Wiggly	Small stones	U.S. nationwide

What caused the issue?

The possible presence of small stones, a foreign material contaminant that may have entered the product during harvesting or processing, prompted the recall. While such stones are naturally occurring, they can cause oral or digestive tract injury if consumed.

Who’s at risk?

Though the risk is low, the company advises all consumers to avoid eating the affected batches. Children, older adults, and individuals with dental or digestive sensitivities could be more vulnerable.

Symptoms to watch for

If consumed, small stones could potentially cause choking, tooth damage, or gastrointestinal discomfort. As of this writing, the company has reported no injuries.

Questions you might have

1. Is this recall limited to the U.S.?
   Yes. It applies only to products distributed within the United States.
2. Are other Ben’s Original™ products affected?
   No, only the specific batches listed above.
3. How were the stones discovered?
   They were identified during internal quality control procedures.
4. What should I do if I have already cooked or eaten the product?
   If no injury occurred, no action is needed other than discarding the remaining product.
5. Will stores refund my purchase?
   Consumers can contact 1-800-548-6253 for refund assistance.
6. Can I return it to the retailer?
   Yes, or directly through Ben’s Original Consumer Care.
7. Is this the first recall for Ben’s Original™?
   It’s an isolated, product-specific issue.
8. Are there confirmed injuries?
   No injuries or illnesses have been reported.
9. How can I confirm my product is affected?
   Check the batch code and best-by date printed on the bottom seal of the package.
10. How soon was this recall announced after detection?
    The company initiated it promptly after confirming potential contamination.

Here’s what you should do

• Do not consume the affected Ready Rice products.
• Check the back of the package’s bottom seal for batch code and best-by date.
• Discard the product safely or contact Ben’s Original Consumer Care at 1-800-548-6253 for guidance.
• Keep receipts or packaging for identification.

Behind the brand

Ben’s Original, a well-known brand under Mars Food, is recognized for its convenient and high-quality rice products. The company has publicly reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, safety, and continuous quality monitoring throughout all stages of production.

Other relevant recalls

• Tony’s Chocolonely recalls two chocolate bars due to the presence of small stones
• Foster Poultry Farms recalls chicken corn dogs and ground turkey on a stick due to possible wood contamination
• Hormel recalls 256,185 pounds of canned beef stew over wood chip contamination
• MegaMex Foods recalls La Victoria Cilantro Salsa due to wood contamination
• Request Foods recalls multiple soups due to unexpected ingredient: wood

“Food safety is not optional; it’s the foundation of consumer trust and supply chain excellence. Staying informed and acting quickly during recalls ensures we all contribute to safer food systems.” Eran Mizrahi, CEO of Source86.

Ensuring safe eats

This recall highlights how even trusted brands face unexpected supply chain challenges. Detecting and acting on these issues quickly not only protects consumers but also reinforces accountability across the food industry.

If you purchased any affected Ben’s Original™ Ready Rice, don’t consume it: dispose of it safely or contact the brand for a refund.

At Source86, we prioritize food safety, private label quality, and supply chain integrity. For premium, safe, and reliable ingredients, connect with our team today.

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