Typically, it is eaten as a snack or used as a base for other ingredients.

[1] While it is low in nutrients, it is generally considered to be a low-calorie food.

It is often consumed among dieters as a substitute for higher-calorie breads or other food items, especially so during the 1980's and 1990's.

Common flavorings include chicken, sweet chili, cheese, butter, chocolate, caramel, salt and vinegar, or apple cinnamon.

Most rice cakes are round, though square varieties are available.