UNCOVERING THE TRUTH ABOUT ARSENIC IN BROWN RICE: A NUTRITION PROFESSIONAL'S PERSPECTIVE

Expert opinion from Deidre Huysamen

Dietician - Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Services · 7 years of experience · South Africa

Yes. Brown rice contains around 80% more inorganic arsenic than white rice. This is because arsenic is found in the outer grain of rice that is removed when white rice is produced. The quantity of arsenic in brown rice can be reduced by washing this rice is arsenic free water (reduces arsenic content by 10-28%) and boiling it in arsenic free water (cumulatively reducing arsenic content by 57%). Aromatic rice, such as basmati and jasmine rice, are likely to contain less arsenic and are therefore better rice options.

Expert opinion from Livia Dickson Chen

PhD in Nutrition · 11 years of experience · Brazil

Yes. Arsenic is naturally found in rice. But it is present not only in brown rice but also in white and parboiled rice. The concentration of this chemical element is more concentrated in brown rice than in parboiled rice. However, there is no reason for concern as the regulatory bodies in each country set maximum limits for the arsenic found in rice. One way to reduce this element is to cook and drain the cooking water, but with this technique, nutrients are also lost.

→ See more questions and expert answers related to Brown Rice.

→ Love Brown Rice? Get nutritional facts, tips from health experts, and more

Expert opinion from María F. Carzon

Bachelor degree in Human Nutrition · 4 years of experience · Argentina

Arsenic has two chemical forms and it might be found in the environment. Evidence shows that brown rice has more inorganic arsenic than white rice. Rice is one of the plants that absorb more arsenic than other plants. The FDA does not impose a limit but has proposed an action level for arsenic. Eating rice with high levels of arsenic might be dangerous. To reduce the arsenic content, rice can be washed and cooked.

What are people curious about?
Mediterranean diet	Keto diet
Diabetic diet	Weight loss

Disclaimer: This is for information purpose only, and should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. These are opinions from an external panel of individual doctors or nutritionists and not to be considered as opinion of Microsoft. Please seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns. Medical advice varies across region. Advice from professionals outside your region should be used at your own discretion. Or you should contact a local health professional.

2024-07-02T17:37:17Z dg43tfdfdgfd