New research, published in the journal Risk Analysis, has confirmed that brown rice contains higher levels of arsenic compared to white rice. While the study indicates that the amount of arsenic in brown rice is generally not a significant health concern for most healthy adults, it raises more pronounced concerns for young children under the age of five due to their higher consumption relative to body weight. Experts recommend that parents and caregivers consider steps to limit exposure in this vulnerable group, while emphasizing the overall importance of a varied and balanced diet to mitigate the effects of heavy metals, including arsenic.

This study, led by Christian Scott, PhD, a postdoctoral research associate at Michigan State University, contributes to the ongoing FDA’s “Closer to Zero” initiative aimed at reducing dietary exposure to food contaminants, particularly heavy metals in children. It builds upon existing knowledge that arsenic primarily accumulates in the rice’s outer bran layer. Since brown rice retains this bran layer while white rice does not, brown rice naturally harbors more arsenic. Scott’s research synthesized findings from previous studies, providing a comprehensive comparison of arsenic exposure from brown versus white rice based on average American consumption patterns. The data revealed that brown rice consumption led to higher arsenic levels relative to body weight.

A critical finding from the research was that children under five years old exhibited the highest average rice consumption per bodyweight unit. This is not because they eat large quantities of rice, but rather because their food intake is considerably higher relative to their smaller body mass compared to adults. Additionally, the study noted that U.S.-grown rice generally had lower concentrations of arsenic than the global supply, a difference potentially attributed to lower arsenic levels in U.S. soil and water, as well as specific processing practices.

Arsenic is a naturally occurring element found in air, water, soil, and food, but its ingestion is toxic to humans. Long-term exposure to high levels of arsenic can lead to severe health issues, including cancers of the skin, bladder, and lungs, according to the World Health Organization. Arsenic exists in two forms: organic compounds, which contain carbon, and inorganic compounds, which do not. Research consistently shows that inorganic arsenic is more toxic and poses more severe health risks, and it is unfortunately the form more readily bioavailable to humans, typically found in food.

Despite these findings, the research offers reassurance for most rice consumers. The study concluded that for the general population, the arsenic in brown rice is