Study Finds Concerning Arsenic Levels in Some Rice Products

By Tahani Elghazaly
Published July 9, 2026

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New testing by Consumer Reports has renewed concerns about arsenic in rice, after 52 rice products were examined and inorganic arsenic was detected in every sample. The results showed clear differences between rice types and sources, with brown rice generally recording higher levels, while some basmati and sushi rice products were among the lower-arsenic options.

The findings do not mean that eating rice occasionally is dangerous, but they raise questions about long-term exposure, especially for children, pregnant women, and families that rely on rice as a daily staple. The World Health Organization says long-term exposure to inorganic arsenic through food or drinking water can lead to chronic health problems, including increased risks of certain cancers, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and developmental effects in children.

Rice is more likely than many other grains to absorb arsenic because it is often grown in flooded fields, where arsenic naturally present in soil or water can move into the plant. Brown rice may contain more arsenic than white rice of the same type because the outer layers of the grain are retained, and arsenic tends to accumulate in those layers.

In Canada, Health Canada says it monitors arsenic levels in food and advises consumers to reduce exposure where possible. The department recommends cooking rice in extra water — six or more parts water to one part rice — then draining and discarding the cooking water before eating.

Experts also recommend varying grains instead of relying on rice every day. Families can rotate rice with options such as oats, barley, bulgur, quinoa, couscous, wheat, or other grains, especially when preparing meals for young children. The main message is not to panic or stop eating rice completely, but to choose lower-arsenic varieties when possible, cook rice in a way that reduces exposure, and keep meals diverse.