Toxic Metals, Arsenic Found in Rice Sold in Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin

I love rice. It's the perfect base grain for a lot of really great meals. In fact my family has already had at least 2 to 3 meals including it this week. That's what has made this latest study "hard to swallow." If rice is a regular part of your family’s meals, especially when it comes to babies or toddlers, there’s something important you should know. A new national study found toxic heavy metals in every single rice sample tested from stores across the country, including right here in the Tri-States.

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Yes, 100% of all tested rice samples contained Arsenic.

The research, led by Healthy Babies, Bright Futures (HBBF) and 16 nonprofit partners, looked at 145 rice samples and 66 other grains purchased from major grocery chains, dollar stores, and small local markets. One location of the study was Chicago, IL, and while none of the stores tested were located in Iowa or Wisconsin specifically, the products that were tested are sold across the Tri-State area at many of your favorite retailers.

Using an independent lab in Seattle, the study tested for arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury. The results seem damning: every rice sample contained at least one of these metals, with arsenic showing up at the highest levels. Crazier still, some products contained levels well above what’s considered safe for infants.

Rice Types Make a Big Difference

One major takeaway for Midwest families: not all rice is created equal when it comes to contamination. These tests looked at 4 specific metals: Arsenic, Cadmium, Mercury, and Lead. Brown rice and rice grown in the southeastern U.S. showed the highest average levels of heavy metals.

On the other hand, California-grown rice, Thai jasmine, and Indian basmati had some of the lowest levels of toxic metals in the study. Some rice alternatives like quinoa, barley, couscous, and farro tested far better overall, with far less arsenic and cadmium.

What Parents Can Do Today

The good news is that families don’t have to give up rice, but they still may want to limit its consumption. Experts say a few simple changes can significantly reduce exposure to these toxic metals.

• Cook rice in excess water (like pasta): Use about 6 to 10 cups of water per 1 cup of rice, then drain the extra water after cooking. This can cut arsenic levels by up to 60%.
• Choose lower-risk rice: Stick to California-grown, Thai jasmine, or Indian basmati rice when possible.
• Mix it up: Try swapping in grains like quinoa, barley, or couscous once or twice a week.

While some progress has been made, specifically in reducing arsenic in infant rice cereal, no federal limit currently exists for arsenic in your basic rice items sold in stores. HBBF is calling on the FDA and state agencies to set enforceable limits, require public testing, and allow labels that identify safer rice options. Until then, it’s up to parents and caregivers in the Tri-States and beyond to make smart choices when it comes to their grains.