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Arsenic and Cadmium Found in Popular Rice Brands, Study Finds
A recent study has revealed potentially dangerous levels of arsenic and cadmium in over 100 different brands of store-bought rice in the United States. These heavy metals, even in small amounts, have been linked to serious health problems such as diabetes, developmental delays, reproductive issues, and heart disease. The report, produced by Healthy Babies, Bright Futures, highlights the increased risk for young children, as early exposure to these metals can lead to reduced IQ and other cognitive and behavioral problems.
Alarmingly, one in four rice samples exceeded the inorganic arsenic limits set by the FDA for infant rice cereal. While the FDA’s regulations have successfully reduced arsenic levels in infant cereal, the same standards have not been applied to rice intended for family consumption, despite it being a significant source of arsenic exposure for young children.
The USA Rice Federation, representing American rice growers, maintains that U.S.-grown rice contains the lowest arsenic levels globally and disputes the existence of a public health risk. While they acknowledge working with the FDA on this issue, they point out that fruits, vegetables, and fruit juices contribute a larger percentage of arsenic to the American diet. However, the report authors counter that this comparison is misleading, as rice alone constitutes a substantial 17% of dietary arsenic intake, potentially making it the single largest food source.
Rice is a staple food for over a billion children worldwide, making this a global concern. The report indicates that rice contributes significantly to arsenic exposure in young children, particularly among Hispanic/Latino and Asian children, where the exposure percentage is disproportionately higher. Several community organizations partnered with the study to raise awareness about these risks and encourage informed food choices.
The study also analyzed various ancient grains as alternatives to rice. While these grains contained slightly higher levels of cadmium, the overall heavy metal content was significantly lower than in rice. Experts note that both arsenic and cadmium pose serious health risks, including developmental harm and cancer.
The report emphasized that the type of rice and its origin significantly impact heavy metal levels. Brown and wild rice typically contain higher levels due to the milling process.
U.S.-grown brown rice, Italian Arborio rice, and Southeast U.S. white rice showed high levels of heavy metals. Basmati rice from India, jasmine rice from Thailand, and California-grown sushi rice had lower levels.
California-grown rice had the lowest overall heavy metal content. Consumers are advised to exercise caution with precooked rice due to potential additional toxins and chemical leaching from packaging.
The report recommends cooking rice like pasta – using excess water and draining it before consumption – to reduce arsenic levels by up to 60%. Soaking rice before cooking can further reduce arsenic content.
However, this method can also remove fortified iron, so parents are advised to consult pediatricians about incorporating other iron-rich foods into their children’s diets. Consuming foods rich in certain nutrients can also help mitigate the body’s absorption of these contaminants.
Finally, the report urges clearer labeling practices from the industry and stronger federal oversight to better inform consumers and protect children from heavy metal exposure. The FDA says it is currently reviewing chemicals in the food supply, including heavy metals.