Despite their very similar names and shared place of origin, the Rhode Island White is a distinct breed from the Rhode Island Red.

In Australia, the Rhode Island White is regarded as a color variety of the Rhode Island breed according to the Australian Poultry Standards.

It was first accepted into the American Poultry Association's Standard of Perfection in 1922.

Rhode Island Whites are a dual-purpose fowl suitable for both meat and egg production.

They have a single variety, with pure white plumage, red wattles and earlobes, and a medium size rose comb.