Health hazard from arsenic rice products for infants only in moderation

Many infant products often contain a lot of rice. Although rice is considered healthy because of the vitamins and minerals it contains, many rice products also contain toxins that can pose a significant health risk. Small children should therefore only get them in moderation.
Rice products often contain a lot of arsenic
Among health experts, rice is actually considered part of a balanced diet because of the vitamins and minerals it contains. It contains important amino acids, fiber and, because of its low sodium content, it is suitable for dehydrating the body in cases of obesity or obesity and hypertension. Especially in products for toddlers a lot of rice is included: be it rice waffles, rice milk or baby porridge based on rice. However, such products may also contain higher levels of hazardous toxins. Rice and rice products often contain a lot of arsenic and should therefore only be consumed in moderation. The Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) had already warned last summer that it was eating too much of it. Years ago, American scientists had made it clear that there was a risk to pregnant women and their offspring due to the presence of arsenic in rice.

Health hazard through the popular rice waffles. This also applies to organic varieties. Image: dima_pics - fotolia

For small children only in moderation recommended
The consumer center Bavaria explains now on their website that especially infants and toddlers should not take too much of such products. The experts advise parents, babies and small children better to give rice products in moderation and to alternate with foods based on other cereals. If necessary, consumers can also ask manufacturers, as many of them now control the arsenic content of their products. At the same time, the Consumer Advice Center points out that adults and older children, of course, do not have to do without rice and rice products entirely.

Since the beginning of the year new limits apply
Last year, the European Union set maximum levels for inorganic arsenic in rice, rice biscuits, rice cakes, rice crackers, rice cakes and rice for the production of food for infants and toddlers. These figures have been in effect since 1 January 2016. According to the Consumer Center, inorganic arsenic in large quantities is a risk factor for cancer. According to health experts, arsenic is also used as a medicine and is used, among other things, in the treatment of cancer. Light arsenic poisoning can also cause discomfort in adults, including cramps, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, and kidney failure. (Ad)