Experts recommend rinsing brown rice thoroughly and cooking it in excess water to help reduce arsenic levels before consumption.

Long-term exposure to arsenic has been linked to various cancers, including lung, bladder, skin, kidney, liver, and prostate cancers, according to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).

Despite its nutritional benefits, brown rice is generally more expensive and less favored in taste and texture, which may deter some consumers from choosing it.

In the U.S., 48% of the total arsenic in brown rice is inorganic, compared to 33% in white rice; globally, these figures increase to 65% for brown rice and 53% for white rice.

Arsenic exposure in young children can disrupt brain development, leading to lower IQ, learning difficulties, and behavioral issues, as well as increased risks of autism and ADHD.

Experts recommend diversifying grain intake with alternatives like quinoa, millet, or barley to lower cumulative arsenic exposure, especially for vulnerable populations such as young children and pregnant women.

The World Health Organization has linked early arsenic exposure to cognitive decline and increased mortality risk later in life, underscoring the importance of monitoring dietary choices.

A recent study from Michigan State University, published in the journal Risk Analysis, highlights that while brown rice is more nutritious than white rice, it contains higher levels of arsenic, which poses significant risks, particularly to young children.

In response to these concerns, the FDA's Closer to Zero initiative aims to establish action levels for arsenic in food, emphasizing the need for consumer awareness regarding arsenic risks.

On the other hand, white rice is more affordable and widely accepted, with processing methods that reduce arsenic levels, although this also results in a loss of essential nutrients.

This research raises important questions about consumer awareness and dietary choices regarding arsenic levels in food, particularly rice.

Chronic arsenic exposure can lead to serious health issues, including skin lesions, gastrointestinal disorders, increased cancer risk, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes, particularly affecting young children.