When it comes to rice, many of us want to leave it but are unable to for it being staple to our diet. However, often, we have been told to switch to brown rice, for it is a better alternative, a healthier one than the white rice. It is less processed, rich in fiber, and packed with nutrients. However, a recent study from Michigan State University, published in the journal Risk Analysis, titled: Arsenic content and exposure in brown rice compared to white rice in the United States by Christian Kelly Scott and Felicia Wu, suggested that food safety also needs to be part of the conversation when it comes to brown rice. It is especially important when it comes to its arsenic levels.What Did The Study Find?Published in the journal Risk Analysis, the study found that brown rice contains more arsenic than white rice, especially in U.S. populations. Arsenic is a naturally occurring element found in soil and water, but it can be harmful when consumed in high amounts over time.Researchers found that, on average, brown rice had higher levels of inorganic arsenic—a more toxic form—compared to white rice. This could pose potential health risks, particularly for children under the age of five.Why Does Rice Contain Arsenic?Rice is different from other grains because it absorbs more arsenic from the soil. That’s mainly because it’s often grown in flooded fields, where waterlogged soil allows arsenic to be taken up more easily by the plant.Compared to other cereal grains, rice can take in nearly 10 times more arsenic. And since brown rice keeps its outer layers (which white rice loses during processing), it holds more of the arsenic absorbed from the environment.Who Is Most at Risk?The average adult probably doesn’t eat enough brown rice for arsenic to be a serious concern. But children, especially those under five, are more vulnerable. That’s because they tend to eat more food in proportion to their body weight.Certain communities, like Asian immigrant populations and families dealing with food insecurity, may also face higher exposure if rice is a staple part of their daily diet.Regional Differences in Arsenic LevelsThe study also found that arsenic levels vary depending on where the rice is grown. In U.S.-grown rice, about 48% of arsenic in brown rice was the toxic inorganic kind, compared to 33% in white rice. In rice grown outside the U.S., those numbers were even higher—65% for brown rice and 53% for white.Should You Stop Eating Brown Rice?Not necessarily. The study’s lead author, Professor Felicia Wu, says the goal isn’t to scare people away from brown rice. It’s about understanding the trade-offs.Brown rice has clear health benefits: it’s high in fiber, protein, and niacin. But food choices should consider both nutrition and safety. Wu emphasized that it would take very large amounts of brown rice eaten daily over many years for arsenic to pose a long-term health risk.Looking AheadThe U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is already working on setting safety limits for arsenic in food through its “Closer to Zero” initiative. This could lead to new guidelines that help people make more informed food choices.Until then, balance is key. Switching between different grains—like oats, quinoa, or barley—can reduce overall arsenic intake while keeping meals healthy and diverse.
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