Inorganic arsenic in rice

The Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) recommends minimizing arsenic levels in rice products. Research has shown that rice and rice products contain larger amounts of inorganic arsenic. The authority therefore advises to consume products such as rice waffles only in moderation and to alternate with products from other cereals.

Investigations have also revealed that some rice products, such as rice cakes, have higher levels of inorganic arsenic than rice grains. Since inorganic arsenic compounds are classified as carcinogenic to humans, foods should only contain them as little as reasonably achievable.

Parents are advised not to feed their infants and young children exclusively with rice-based beverages such as rice milk or complementary foods such as rice porridge. Consumers who have celiac disease or respond to gluten with health conditions should avoid a one-sided focus on rice and rice products when choosing gluten-free cereals. In addition to rice, other types of gluten-free cereals such as corn, millet, buckwheat, amaranth or quinoa can be added to the diet in these cases. Rice should still be part of a balanced diet. (Pm)

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