Danger to Your Health! Shocking Discovery About the Rice We Consume Every Day!

A new report by Healthy Babies, Bright Futures, a nonprofit organization focused on reducing infants’ exposure to toxic chemicals, has revealed the widespread presence of heavy metals, including arsenic, in rice samples purchased from grocery stores across the United States.

The report, based on an analysis of 145 rice samples from over 100 brands and 10 different forms of grain in 20 U.S. metropolitan areas, found arsenic in 100% of the samples. The study also detected cadmium, lead, and mercury, noting that these contaminants can pose serious health risks, including cancer, developmental harm like IQ loss, and accumulation in the body over time. Arsenic and cadmium were found at the highest levels.

Notably, one in four rice samples exceeded the federal limit set for arsenic in infant rice cereal. The report pointed out that no such limit exists for regular rice consumed by families, including infants and toddlers, despite its widespread consumption. Cadmium was also found in nearly all samples, with some showing elevated levels. The World Health Organization notes that long-term exposure to arsenic through food and water can cause cancer and skin lesions.

Michael Klein, a spokesperson for the USA Rice Federation, stated that American-grown rice contains the lowest levels of inorganic arsenic globally. He affirmed the commitment of U.S. rice farmers and companies to providing wholesome, high-quality, and nutritious food. While the federation does not believe there is a public health safety issue due to trace amounts of arsenic in rice and states every example highlighted in the report is below FDA recommended guidance, it will continue to collaborate with the FDA to ensure the U.S. rice supply meets any established thresholds.

The study’s data indicated that brown rice grown in the southeast or labeled “grown in the USA” had the highest average levels of heavy metals. White rice from the southeast also showed higher levels of heavy metals, particularly arsenic, compared to rice grown in California. In general, Thai jasmine rice, Indian basmati rice, and California-grown rice contained lower heavy metal levels. However, basmati rice from India and arborio rice from Italy had the highest average cadmium levels. Lead and mercury were found at the lowest levels across the samples.

Healthy Babies, Bright Futures research director Jane Houlihan advised families to take practical steps to reduce exposure, such as cooking rice in extra water and draining it, opting for other grains like quinoa or barley, and choosing lower-arsenic rice varieties like California-grown, Thai jasmine, or Indian basmati. The organization is also urging the FDA to establish enforceable limits on arsenic in all rice, not just baby cereal, to better protect children and families.