Home / Why Wild Rice
Functional · Heritage · Protected

The Antioxidant Powerhouse

While many grains provide calories, wild rice provides protection. Clinical research confirms wild rice is a significant source of phenolic compounds — and a true ancient, whole grain recognized by the University of Minnesota.

The Antioxidant Powerhouse
30×
Antioxidant Activity
Research indicates wild rice has up to 30× greater antioxidant activity than refined white rice.
48%
More Protein
Wild rice offers 48% more protein than white rice — a complete plant-based source.
More Fiber
Over 5× the dietary fiber of white rice. Supports heart health and lasting satiety.
30%
DV Manganese
One serving provides nearly 30% of the Daily Value — vital for metabolism and bone structure.
A true functional ingredient
Phenolic Density

A true functional ingredient

The PubMed study highlights a high concentration of phenolic acids, which help neutralize free radicals. For food manufacturers and health-conscious consumers alike, this positions wild rice as a 'functional ingredient' that supports a clean-label, health-forward product.

Minerals milling strips away
Essential Micronutrients

Minerals milling strips away

Wild rice is a dense source of minerals often stripped away in the milling of other rices.

B-Vitamins: Rich in Folate and B6 for energy conversion.
Manganese: Vital for metabolism and bone structure.
Magnesium & Phosphorus: Crucial for bone mineral density.
Zinc: Essential for immune function.

Source:

Healthline · WebMD

Wild Rice with a blue sky and white clouds in the background
The Ancient Grain Advantage

Ancient grain | Whole grain

Unlike modern grains that have been heavily hybridized, the University of Minnesota recognizes wild rice as a true Ancient Grain and 100% Whole Grain — bran and germ intact.

The only cereal grain native to North America
Minnesota State Grain · GMO-Protected

The only cereal grain native to North America

Wild rice (Zizania) is not actually a rice — it's an annual aquatic grass native to Minnesota, and the only cereal grain indigenous to North America. It was officially designated the Minnesota State Grain on May 27, 1977 (MN Statute 1.148).

Minnesota law protects wild rice from genetic engineering. The MDA holds permit authority over any GMO wild rice release (MN Chapter 18), and a 2007 state law requires an environmental impact statement if any GMO wild rice permit is issued anywhere in the United States.

What that means for you: every grain we mill is non-GMO by law and by nature — a heritage food, not a hybridized commodity.

By The Numbers

Nutritional Comparison.

Per 100g of cooked grain — wild rice vs. other popular varieties.

GrainProteinFiberCalories
Wild Rice4.0g2.1g101
Basmati Rice3.5g0.7g121
Brown Rice2.6g1.8g112
White Rice2.7g0.4g130
Jasmine Rice2.5g0.3g129
Certified Quality

Our Certifications

Select Canoe Wild Rice products are USDA Organic Certified, verified by an accredited third-party certifying agent.

USDA Organic logo with green and brown colors on a white background

USDA Organic Certified

Select Canoe Wild Rice products are certified organic under the USDA National Organic Program. Our organic wild rice is grown without synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or GMOs — and processed separately at our Aitkin, MN mill to maintain certification integrity.

Non-GMO By Law

Wild rice is protected from genetic engineering under Minnesota state law. The Minnesota Department of Agriculture holds permit authority over any GMO wild rice release (MN Chapter 18), making every grain we mill non-GMO by law and by nature.