Is 365 everyday value, spelt green lentils & long grain brown rice Keto?

The Ingredient Breakdown

To understand why this product fails the keto test, we need to look closely at the ingredient list: Water, spelt, green lentils, long grain brown rice, extra virgin olive oil, and sea salt.

The primary issue lies in the grain content. Spelt is an ancient grain related to wheat. While it is often touted for its nutty flavor and nutritional profile, it is fundamentally a grain composed almost entirely of carbohydrates. Spelt contains gluten and has a glycemic index that is incompatible with ketosis.

Even more problematic for keto dieters is the long grain brown rice. Brown rice is a complex carbohydrate, but it is still a high-carb food. A standard serving of brown rice can easily contain 40-45 grams of net carbohydrates. When combined with the spelt, the total carb count of this product becomes unmanageable for someone aiming to stay under 20-30 grams of net carbs per day.

On the positive side, green lentils are included. Lentils are a nutritional powerhouse, offering significant fiber and protein. However, legumes are naturally starchy. While lentils are lower in net carbs than rice, they still contribute a significant carbohydrate load that adds to the total.

Finally, extra virgin olive oil is a fantastic source of healthy fats, which is the cornerstone of the keto diet. Unfortunately, the amount of oil in this pre-packaged meal is not enough to offset the massive carbohydrate load from the spelt, rice, and lentils.

Nutritional Value

While this product isn't suitable for keto, it is important to acknowledge its nutritional value in other contexts. The combination of spelt and green lentils creates a complete protein profile, making this an excellent option for vegetarians or vegans looking to increase their protein intake without eating meat.

The product is low in sugar, which is a positive, and it contains no added sugars or artificial ingredients. The fat content comes from olive oil, which is heart-healthy monounsaturated fat. However, for a keto dieter, the macro ratio is inverted. A keto meal should be high fat, moderate protein, and very low carbohydrate. This product is high carbohydrate, moderate protein, and low fat. Even if you were to add extra butter or oil to this dish, the sheer volume of carbohydrates in the rice and spelt would likely trigger an insulin response that halts ketosis.