Minute Rice gets a better-for-you, global makeover

HOUSTON -- A popular rice brand in the United States is getting a revamp thanks to consumers' increasing preferences for healthier and globally inspired foods.

Minute Ready to Serve Rice is launching a new whole grain blend, Brown Rice & Quinoa, as well as globally inspired Basmati Rice, and Family Size Bowls in whole grain brown and white rice options.

Minute Ready to Serve Brown Rice & Quinoa combines two 100 percent whole grains — brown rice and red quinoa — creating a nutty and slightly crunchy product that is versatile enough to eat alone or in other meals such as salads or even breakfast options. Brown Rice & Quinoa is made with quinoa, an ancient grain containing all nine essential amino acids. Ready in just 60 seconds, it's the only product available of its kind in a single-serve cup similar to other Minute Ready to Serve varieties with the added benefits of being a good source of fiber and gluten-free.

An additional new, single-serve option is Minute Ready to Serve Basmati Rice. With its aromatic fragrance, nutty flavor and 60-second heating time, Basmati Rice can serve as a simple side dish or foundation to any Asian, Middle Eastern and traditional dish.

Minute Ready to Serve Rice Family Size Bowls are another new convenient option in the Minute Rice family of products. Available in two 16-ounce, gluten-free varieties including whole grain brown rice and white rice, Family Size Bowls are microwave-ready in just two minutes and serve three to four family members, making it a no-fuss side dish or foundation to a great weeknight meal that can be served straight from the bowl with no clean-up. Family Size Bowls help make fried rice and stir-fry dishes even easier, too, since the rice is fully cooked and just needs heating.

"These new Minute Rice products reflect the emerging needs and preferences of our consumers — convenience, portability, variety and superior quality," said Paul Galvani, SVP of Marketing at Riviana Foods Inc. "The combination of whole grain brown rice and quinoa provides a versatile and wholesome option and adds to Minute Rice's growing line of better-for-you products, while Ready to Serve Basmati Rice adds to our popular globally-inspired options. Family Size Bowls help alleviate some of the meal time stress for our consumers, leaving them more time to spend with their families."

Available at retailers nationwide, Minute Ready to Serve Brown Rice & Quinoa and Ready to Serve Basmati Rice are offered for a suggested retail price of $2.00. Minute Ready to Serve Family Size Bowls, available in whole grain brown and white rice, are sold for a suggested retail price of $3.39 across the country.