New research, including a study published in *Risk Analysis*, has reconfirmed that brown rice typically contains higher levels of arsenic compared to white rice. While this finding might seem concerning, experts generally agree that for most healthy adults, the amount of arsenic in brown rice does not pose a significant health risk. However, particular caution is advised for children under the age of five, where brown rice consumption can substantially increase their dietary arsenic exposure. This nuanced understanding emphasizes the importance of a varied and balanced diet to mitigate the effects of heavy metals, including arsenic, for all age groups.

The reason for brown rice's higher arsenic content is rooted in its structure. Arsenic accumulates most significantly in the outer bran layer of the rice grain. Since brown rice retains this bran layer—unlike white rice, which has it removed during processing—it naturally harbors more arsenic. Christian Scott, PhD, a postdoctoral research associate at Michigan State University and author of the *Risk Analysis* study, explained that this research contributes to the FDA’s ongoing “Closer to Zero” effort, which aims to reduce dietary exposure to food contaminants like heavy metals in children.

Scott's research built upon existing knowledge by consolidating findings from previous studies. He estimated arsenic exposure from brown versus white rice based on average American consumption, revealing that brown rice led to higher relative arsenic levels (per body weight). A critical insight from his work is that children under five emerged as the highest average rice consumers per bodyweight unit. This is not due to large quantities of rice consumption, but rather because young children consume considerably more food relative to their body weight than adults. Furthermore, the study noted that U.S.-grown rice consistently exhibited lower concentrations of arsenic than the global supply, potentially due 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. Ingesting it can be toxic to humans, with long-term exposure to high levels linked to various cancers, according to the World Health Organization. Arsenic exists in two forms: organic, which contains carbon, and inorganic, which does not. Research indicates that inorganic arsenic is the more toxic form, and unfortunately, it is the type more commonly found and bioavailable in food.

Despite these findings, the research offers good news for rice enthusiasts. The study concluded that for the majority of people, the arsenic in brown rice is “of limited concern.” Scott confirmed that “the average adult American has minimal health risks from consuming normal amounts of rice.” It's important to recognize that some dietary arsenic is unavoidable, as it is present in many foods beyond brown rice. Julie Jones, PhD, CNS, distinguished scholar and professor emerita at St. Catherine University, noted that