Mars Food announced today it will change the Uncle Bens brand to Bens Original, "signaling the brands ambition to create a more inclusive future while maintaining its commitment to producing the worlds best rice."

The company also said its removing the Black chefs image on the package, but didnt say what it would be replaced with. Bens Original packaging will begin reaching store shelves in 2021.

The 77-year-old brand was caught up in a tide of marketing introspection in June, when a handful of brands and product images were considered potentially racist. PepsiCo/Quaker Foods has committed to replacing its Aunt Jemima branding. B&G Foods Cream of Wheat is under review.

"Over the last several weeks, we have listened to thousands of consumers, our own associates and other stakeholders from around the world," said Fiona Dawson, Global President of Mars Food, Multisales and Global Customers. "We understand the inequities that were associated with the name and face of the previous brand."

"The brand is not just changing its name and image on the package," todays company statement said. "It is also taking action to enhance inclusion and equity and setting out its new brand purpose to create opportunities that offer everyone a seat at the table."

Bens Original community outreach programs will ensure underserved communities have access to nutritious meals, as well as help culinary entrepreneurs of all colors get educational opportunities so their ideas and voices can be appreciated by all. "This work will begin in the U.S. wher the brand has forged a partnership with National Urban League to support aspiring Black chefs through a scholarship fund, before expanding to support other underserved communities around the world."

In addition, in Greenville, Miss. -- wher Uncle Bens has been produced in the U.S. for more than 40 years -- Mars Food will invest in the local community to address "issues that have plagued this region of the U.S. for generations. This programming will focus on enhancing educational opportunities for more than 7,500 area students, as well as furthering access to fresh foods."