News about the presence of arsenic and cadmium in rice may have caught your attention.
As parents, we’re always trying to make the best choices for our children’s health, so hearing that a common food like rice could contain harmful substances can feel overwhelming.
What Are Arsenic and Cadmium?
Arsenic is a naturally occurring element found in the environment, including soil and water. While it’s present in trace amounts in many foods, rice tends to absorb more arsenic than other crops because it’s often grown in water-flooded fields. Long-term exposure to high levels of arsenic can lead to health issues, including cancer, developmental problems, and heart disease.
Cadmium, another toxic heavy metal, is also found in soil and water and can accumulate in rice plants. Prolonged exposure to cadmium may affect kidney function and bone health.
Rice is a staple food in many households and often a primary source of carbohydrates in children’s diets. The report highlights that, over time, regular consumption of rice with higher levels of arsenic and cadmium may pose a risk—especially for growing children, whose bodies are more vulnerable to toxins.
Now is a good time to become more informed about the choices we make for our families' meals.
What Can You Do?
- Diversify Grains: While rice is convenient and familiar, it’s not the only option. Consider incorporating other grains like quinoa, barley, oats, or bulgur into your family’s meals. These offer variety and are less likely to carry the same risks.
- Rinse Rice Thoroughly: Washing rice before cooking can help reduce arsenic levels. Rinse it several times, and if possible, cook it with excess water (then drain the water afterward) to further reduce arsenic content.
- Choose Rice Wisely: Brown rice tends to contain more arsenic than white rice because it retains the outer layers where arsenic accumulates. If you’re concerned, opt for basmati rice—especially from regions like California, India, or Pakistan—which typically have lower arsenic levels.
- Limit Rice Products: Many processed foods, such as rice cakes, rice cereal, or rice-based snacks, can be higher in arsenic. Keep these as occasional treats rather than daily staples.
While it’s true that rice can contain arsenic and cadmium, it’s also important to remember that the levels being discussed are generally low, and the risk from occasional rice consumption is minimal. The key is balance and variety. You don’t need to eliminate rice entirely, but being mindful of how often and in what quantities it appears in your child’s meals is a smart move.
Routine testing of all children for arsenic and cadmium is not recommended at this time. However, if you have further questions, please contact your trusted Allied Pediatrician.
Allied Physicians Group is a partnership of more than 150 dedicated, caring physicians and 350 highly trained support staff. We offer pediatric care, family medicine, and other specialties at our practice locations. Allied Physicians Group has office locations in Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, Nassau, Suffolk, Westchester, Rockland, and Orange Counties. If you are looking for a physician near you click here, or for more information, please visit: https://alliedphysiciansgroup.com.