Arsenic is a naturally occurring element found in both soil and groundwater.
Rice plants have a unique ability to absorb arsenic from the soil, especially when grown in flooded fields—a common practice in traditional rice farming.
The biggest concern is the inorganic form of arsenic, which is scientifically proven to be carcinogenic. It can interfere with the body’s DNA repair process, increasing the risk of cancer.
Is It Dangerous to Eat Rice?
Before you cut rice from your diet, it’s important to remember that the risk of developing cancer from eating rice as part of a balanced diet is minimal.
According to senior advisor Max Hansen from DTU Food Institute, the main concern is frequent and long-term consumption.
In other words, eating rice once or twice a week poses little to no risk.
However, children are particularly sensitive to arsenic due to their lower body weight.
For this reason, the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration advises against giving rice-based products such as rice cakes and rice drinks to children.
How to Reduce Arsenic in Rice
The good news is that proper cooking methods can significantly lower arsenic levels in rice. Follow these steps:
- Rinse thoroughly: Soak rice for several hours or rinse it under running water. This helps remove surface arsenic.
- Cook with excess water: Use at least six times more water than rice and drain the excess after cooking. Arsenic dissolves in the water during the cooking process.
- Vary your diet: Eat rice as part of a balanced diet and avoid consuming it every day.
Although these steps can reduce inorganic arsenic, they do not completely eliminate it from rice.
Which Rice Products Contain the Most Arsenic?
Not all rice contains the same levels of arsenic.
- Polished (white) rice generally has lower levels of inorganic arsenic compared to whole-grain varieties like brown, red, or black rice.
- Whole-grain rice retains more nutrients but also absorbs more arsenic from the soil. It’s best to eat these in moderation and alternate with other grains.
- Rice-based products such as rice drinks and rice cakes tend to have higher arsenic levels, making them less suitable for young children.
Should You Choose Organic Rice?
If you assume organic rice has less arsenic, think again.
Arsenic levels depend on soil composition and farming methods, not on whether the rice is organic.
The best approach is to focus on variety and proper cooking methods rather than relying on organic labeling.
This article is based on information from Netdoktor.