Different varieties of rice consumed daily all over the world are contaminated by the presence of arsenic And cadmium. This statement is the conclusion of a study conducted and published by “Healthy Babies, Bright Futures” and made viral by the CNN.
The research examined numerous rice samples sold in US supermarkets but the brands that were involved in the analysis were not made known. Among the products analyzed there are also varieties of Italian rice, including the Arborio ricewidely used in European cuisine.
The results of the study
The study selected as the object of the research 145 samples rice from the United States, Italy, India and Thailand. The products were purchased by American consumers and tests for the detection of heavy metals. 25% of the samples exceeded the limits set in 2021 by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the inorganic arsenic in the cereals intended for children. However, it is necessary to make an important distinction. Once the limits of arsenic do not apply to the rice consumed for adults, they are valid only for products for children.
According to Jane Houlihan, director of research for Healthy Babies, Bright Futures“The rice consumed by children between 0 and 2 years represents one of the main sources of exposure to inorganic Arsenic, even overcoming cereals for children”.
The risks for those who consume products contaminated by Cadmio and Arsenico
Inorganic arsenic is a toxic form present in nature, often absorbed by the soil through water. Prolonged exposure, in particular during pregnancy and early childhood, was connected to neurological problems, reduction of Qi, spontaneous abortions and premature parts.
The cadmium, another metal detected in the tests, can cross the placental barrier and interfere with brain development. It can also cause damage to the kidneys, lungs and bones.
To reduce the risk associated with the consumption of rice, experts recommend rinse the rice abundantly before cooking and cook it in large quantities of water (ratio 1: 6), eliminating the excess liquid.
The Italian Arborio rice variety of among the most contaminated
Among the samples analyzed, the variety of rice Arborio Italiano reported a total content of 142 parts per billion (PPB) of heavy metalswith 101 ppb attributable to the Arsenic. This value approaches the limit of 100 ppb established by the FDA for products intended for childhood.
The variety of rice Arborio has also distinguished itself for a high concentration of cadmium, resulting among the varieties with the highest average values, together with the Indian basmati. The results raise questions about the safety of a very widespread food also in Europe, especially if usually used by families with small children.
The differences between white and wholemeal rice
The tests showed that the presence of heavy metals varies according to the type of rice and the cultivation area. Full and wild rice have recorded higher contamination levels because they retain the external layers of the Chicco where metals accumulate. On the contrary, varieties such as Indian Basmati and Thai Jasmine have shown lower levels.
The US Federation has responded to concerns, stating that the rice cultivated in the United States presents the lowest levels of inorganic arsenic worldwide. The organization underlined compliance with the sector’s safety standards. Strong Houlihan’s reply, “Rice, alone, contributes to 17% of the Arsenic present in the American diet. Although it is a single food, it represents a significant source of exposure”.
The request for more stringent rules
Rice is a central food in many cultures. The report shows that, among Asian children under 2 years, it represents up to 30.5% of the exposure to the Arsenic, while among Hispanic children the value stands at around 14%. The percentage reaches 55% between 18 and 24 months. The study underlines the need to expand the regulations Also to rice intended for the general population and promote information on risks related to excessive consumption of contaminated rice.
