Tue May 20 02:30:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text and a news article based on it:
**Summary:**
A new report reveals that many store-bought rice brands in the U.S. contain dangerously high levels of arsenic and cadmium, posing a particular risk to young children. The report highlights that rice, especially for children under 2, is a significant source of arsenic exposure, even more so than infant rice cereal. While the FDA has set limits for arsenic in infant rice cereal, it hasn’t addressed levels in rice consumed by families. The report emphasizes the importance of rice variety and origin, with California-grown rice showing the lowest heavy metal content. Alternative grains like quinoa and millet have significantly lower arsenic levels. The report also warns against precooked rice due to potential toxin creation during processing. It is recommended to cook rice like pasta, using excess water that is drained, to significantly reduce arsenic levels.
**News Article:**
**Rice Brands Tainted with Arsenic, Cadmium, Posing Risks to Children, Report Finds**
**Washington, D.C.** – A new report reveals alarming levels of arsenic and cadmium in popular rice brands sold across the United States, raising concerns about potential health risks, particularly for young children. The study, conducted by Healthy Babies, Bright Futures, found that one in four rice samples exceeded the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) limit for inorganic arsenic in infant rice cereal.
“Even at low levels, both arsenic and cadmium have been linked to serious health harms,” said Jane Houlihan, research director for Healthy Babies, Bright Futures, “Heavy metal contamination in young children is especially concerning, as early-life exposures are associated with reduced IQ and a range of cognitive and behavioral problems.”
The report found that rice, more so than infant rice cereal, is a major source of arsenic exposure for young children, particularly Hispanic and Asian children. While the FDA has set arsenic limits for infant rice cereal, it has not addressed levels in regular rice.
The USA Rice Federation argued that American-grown rice has the lowest levels of inorganic arsenic globally. However, the report highlights that certain types of rice, like brown and Italian Arborio, contained particularly high levels of heavy metals.
California-grown rice showed the lowest levels, while alternative grains like quinoa, millet, and buckwheat had significantly lower arsenic content. The report also cautioned against precooked rice.
The report recommends cooking rice like pasta, using excess water that is drained to reduce arsenic levels by up to 60%.
Advocates are calling for stronger federal oversight and clearer labeling of rice products to help consumers make informed choices. The FDA stated it is reviewing chemicals in the food supply, including environmental contaminants like heavy metals.
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