Latest news with #HealthyBabiesBrightFutures
Fox News
6 days ago
- Business
- Fox News
Toxic heavy metals detected in popular rice brands across America, study shows
Heavy toxic metals could be in the rice you're about to buy at the grocery store. Healthy Babies, Bright Futures, a nonprofit organization based in Washington, D.C., that seeks to reduce babies' exposure to toxic chemicals, revealed that arsenic was found in 100% of the 145 rice samples purchased from stores throughout the United States. "We found four toxic heavy metals in rice – arsenic, cadmium, lead and mercury," according to the new report. "While each contaminant has different health effects, they can contribute to serious risks like cancer, developmental harm including IQ loss and accumulation in the body over time," the report said. The study included 10 forms of grain and more than 100 brands from stores in 20 different U.S. metropolitan areas, from Seattle to Los Angeles and New York to Miami. "Arsenic was found at the highest levels, with cadmium next," the report stated. One in four rice samples exceeded the federal limit set for arsenic in infant rice cereal, according to the study. "No such limit exists for rice itself – the bags and boxes of rice served at family meals – despite it being widely consumed by infants and toddlers," the report said. "Additionally, cadmium was found in all but one sample, with some showing elevated levels." Long-term exposure to arsenic from food and water can cause cancer and skin lesions, according to the World Health Organization. Michael Klein, a spokesperson for the USA Rice Federation, based in Arlington, Virginia, told Fox News Digital that American-grown rice "contains the lowest levels of inorganic arsenic in the world." "America's rice farmers and rice companies are fully committed to providing wholesome, high-quality and nutritious food." "America's rice farmers and rice companies are fully committed to providing wholesome, high-quality and nutritious food," Klein said. "We know that arsenic in food is alarming for many consumers and that you may have questions," he said. "And while we do not agree that there is a public health safety issue as a result of trace amounts of arsenic in rice, we will continue to work with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to ensure the U.S. rice supply meets any threshold established." Brown rice grown in the southeast or labeled "grown in the USA" had the highest average levels of heavy metals, data from the study showed. White rice grown in the southeast showed consistently higher levels of heavy metals, primarily arsenic, than rice grown in California, the data revealed. Thai jasmine rice and Indian basmati rice, as well as rice grown in California, generally contained lower heavy metal levels than other varieties tested. However, basmati rice from India and arborio rice from Italy had the highest average cadmium levels, per the study. Lead and mercury were found at the lowest levels, the study showed. "The U.S. rice industry does not dispute that there is arsenic in rice," Klein said. "Arsenic is found in virtually everything that grows in the ground." However, Klein called the data misleading — adding that every example highlighted in the new report is below the recommended guidance of the FDA. Information provided by the FDA on its website specifies the permitted levels of heavy metals found in food. As part of its "closer to zero" guidance, the FDA has a higher standard for processed foods intended for babies and young children. "We hope families come away with simple, practical steps they can take right now to reduce exposure – like cooking rice in extra water and draining it, swapping in other grains like quinoa or barley and choosing lower-arsenic rice types such as California-grown, Thai jasmine or Indian basmati," Healthy Babies, Bright Futures research director Jane Houlihan told Fox News Digital. "We're also urging the FDA to set enforceable limits on arsenic in all rice, not just baby cereal, to better protect children and families across the country."
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Amazon hit With lawsuit over allegedly toxic rice containing toxic metals like arsenic, mercury
A new class-action lawsuit filed Friday in U.S. District Court alleges Amazon sold rice products containing toxic heavy metals—including lead, arsenic, cadmium and mercury—without disclosing their presence to consumers. The complaint, filed by plaintiffs Ashley Wright and Merriman Blum, accuses the Seattle-based e-commerce giant of failing to warn buyers that several rice products sold on its marketplace contain substances known to pose significant health risks. Both plaintiffs claim they would not have purchased the rice had they known it contained such contaminants. According to the lawsuit, independent testing commissioned by the nonprofit Healthy Babies Bright Futures (HBBF) found heavy metals in every rice product tested, including varieties available on Amazon such as Iberia Basmati rice and 365 Whole Foods Arborio White Rice. More than one-quarter of the rice samples reportedly exceeded the FDA's limit for inorganic arsenic in infant rice cereal. No such limit exists for general rice consumption. 'There are no known safe levels of heavy metals,' the complaint states, citing findings from federal agencies and medical experts that link even low-level exposure to cancer, developmental delays, and IQ loss in children. Plaintiffs allege Amazon violated the Washington Consumer Protection Act and committed fraudulent concealment by failing to inform consumers on product labels or online descriptions that the rice could contain toxic elements. The suit argues that Amazon either failed to test its products for heavy metals or chose not to disclose the results, despite having full control over the sale, marketing, and presentation of both its own and third-party rice products. The lawsuit also highlights the disproportionate impact of heavy metals in rice on communities for whom rice is a staple food, including Hispanic, Latino and Asian American families. A community survey included in the complaint found that many families eat rice multiple times per day, including serving it to infants. Wright and Blum, who both purchased Iberia Basmati rice for their households—including children—between 2020 and 2025, are seeking class-action status and are asking for an injunction requiring Amazon to disclose the presence of heavy metals, implement product testing, and reimburse consumers. KIRO 7 News has reached out to Amazon for comment.
Reuters
23-05-2025
- Business
- Reuters
Amazon.com is sued over alleged sale of contaminated rice
May 23 (Reuters) - (AMZN.O), opens new tab was sued on Friday by consumers over its alleged sale of a wide variety of rice contaminated by arsenic and other "heavy metals." The proposed class action in Seattle federal court covers 18 types of rice sold through Amazon, including from familiar brands such as Ben's Original and Amazon-owned Whole Foods' 365. "Amazon sold these rice products with alarmingly high levels of heavy metals to an intended consumer audience that includes children, with no warning whatsoever about the dangers of heavy metals," the complaint said. The lawsuit followed a study, opens new tab last week by Healthy Babies, Bright Futures, a nonprofit that focuses on babies' exposure to toxic chemicals. That study found arsenic in all 145 rice samples purchased nationwide, with 28% exceeding a U.S. Food and Drug Administration limit for infant rice cereal. It also found cadmium in all but one sample, and lead and mercury in more than one-third of tested samples. Amazon, based in Seattle, had no immediate comment. Exposure to heavy metals has been associated with negative health effects such as nervous system problems, immune system suppression and kidney damage, and autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in young children. The 18 rice products include two from Ben's Original and three with the 365 label. Plaintiffs Ashley Wright and Merriman Blum said they would not have bought or would have paid less for Iberia Basmati 100% Aged Original rice, one of the products, if they knew the rice was contaminated or Amazon never tested it for heavy metals. Friday's lawsuit seeks unspecified damages of at least $5 million for Amazon's alleged violations of Washington state consumer protection laws. Makers of baby food and dark chocolate have also faced many consumer lawsuits over the alleged presence of heavy metals. The case is Wright et al v Inc, U.S. District Court, Western District of Washington, No. 25-00977.
Yahoo
17-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Dangerous levels of arsenic found in US rice: What families need to know now
The Brief 100% of rice samples tested contained arsenic; over 25% exceeded infant safety limits Cadmium, another toxic metal, was found in all but one sample California-grown rice had the lowest levels of heavy metal contamination LOS ANGELES - A new nationwide investigation by Healthy Babies Bright Futures (HBBF) has uncovered widespread contamination in store-bought rice sold in the United States, raising concerns about arsenic and cadmium exposure—especially among infants, toddlers, and pregnant people. The 2025 report, "What's in Your Family's Rice?," found arsenic in every single rice sample tested, with more than 1 in 4 samples exceeding the FDA's safety limit for infant rice cereal. Cadmium, another harmful heavy metal, was detected in all but one of the 145 rice samples tested. Both arsenic and cadmium are linked to serious long-term health risks, including neurodevelopmental harm, cancer, kidney damage, and reduced IQ in children. By the numbers HBBF's independent lab tests revealed that contamination levels varied based on the type of rice and where it was grown—not the brand. U.S.-grown brown rice had the highest contamination, with 151 parts per billion (ppb) of heavy metals, including 129 ppb of arsenic. White rice from the U.S. Southeast, often labeled simply as "USA," measured 118 ppb in total. Arborio rice from Italy, commonly used for risotto, measured 142 ppb total (101 ppb arsenic). California-grown sushi and Calrose rice had the lowest contamination, at 65 ppb total (55 ppb arsenic). Although the FDA set a 100 ppb arsenic limit for infant rice cereal, no such limit exists for regular rice products—despite their widespread use in family meals. Why you should care According to the report, rice is a significant dietary source of arsenic for children under 2—accounting for an average of 7.5% of total arsenic exposure. That number jumps to 14% for Hispanic and Latino children, and over 30% for Asian American infants, due to higher rice consumption in these communities. The report warns that early-life exposure to these contaminants is especially dangerous during pregnancy and infancy, when the brain is most vulnerable. Arsenic and cadmium can cross the placenta and have been linked to reduced IQ, learning difficulties, and behavioral issues later in life. What you can do The report highlights several safer options for families: California-grown sushi rice or Calrose rice Basmati rice from India Jasmine rice from Thailand Precooked products like instant rice, parboiled rice, and ready-to-heat rice may carry additional risks due to toxins created during processing or chemicals leached from plastic packaging. Instead of focusing on brands, families are advised to look at country of origin and rice variety. Not all packaging lists the origin, so consumers may need to do extra research. HBBF offers practical tips to significantly reduce arsenic exposure at home: Soak rice for 30 minutes or overnight, then drain Cook rice in extra water (6 to 10 cups of water per 1 cup of rice), then drain like pasta Avoid just rinsing—it does little to reduce arsenic Add iron-rich foods, since boiling and draining may reduce added iron in fortified rice Other protective nutrients—like vitamin C, B vitamins, calcium, zinc, and protein—can help block or reduce the absorption of heavy metals. These are found in foods like leafy greens, beans, yogurt, strawberries, citrus fruits, and lean meats. The other side The lab also tested nine ancient grains—such as quinoa, barley, millet, buckwheat, and farro—and found they contained 28 times less arsenic than rice, on average. While some had slightly more cadmium, the overall heavy metal load was three times lower than rice. Families looking to rotate grains or reduce rice intake may find these alternatives helpful for reducing long-term exposure. What's next HBBF calls on the FDA and industry to take urgent action, including: Setting enforceable limits for arsenic and cadmium in all rice—not just baby food Encouraging clear labeling for products that meet infant safety standards Requiring regular testing and public posting of heavy metal levels in rice products The report emphasizes that these are achievable goals with powerful health benefits, especially for communities most affected by high rice consumption. "Parents shouldn't have to worry that a common first food like rice could carry hidden risks," said Jane Houlihan, HBBF's National Director of Science and Health. "This study is a wake-up call—but it's also full of hope. With just a few changes in the kitchen and stronger rules from the FDA, we can dramatically lower children's exposure to harmful metals." The Source This article is based entirely on the 2025 report "What's in Your Family's Rice?" by Healthy Babies Bright Futures (HBBF). All data, quotes, and recommendations are sourced directly from the report and its publicly available consumer guides, which include laboratory results, exposure analysis, and cooking safety tips. The full report is available on the HBBF website.
Daily Mail
16-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
Just 3 spoonfuls of gym diet staple could raise risk of brain damage and CANCER
Eating just three spoonfuls of brown rice every week could raise your risk of brain damage and cancer, a report suggests. Researchers at Healthy Babies, Bright Futures — a pressure group for infant health — tested more than 200 samples of rice bought from popular grocers like Trader Joe's, Whole Foods and Safeway. Each was tested for inorganic arsenic, a more toxic form of the element linked to a higher risk of neurodevelopmental delay, cancer and heart problems. All rice types tested — brown, white, basmati, sushi and jasmine — were found to contain the toxic substance, but levels were highest in brown rice on average. An uncooked brown rice brand sold by major grocer Smart and Final was found to have the highest levels of inorganic arsenic at 201 micrograms per kilogram. The findings suggest that for the average adult, eating just two-and-a-half tablespoons per day would lead someone to exceed their maximum safe levels set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The USA Rice Federation, which represents rice growers, noted that arsenic in food was 'alarming' but argued there was no public safety issue. This is likely because cooking rice in water removes up to 66 percent of the arsenic they contain, while washing them two to four times in tap water can remove up to 84 percent of arsenic present. Nearly all the samples were found to contain three other heavy metals linked to neurodevelopmental delay — lead, cadmium and mercury — but at much lower levels. The EPA has set a recommended limit of exposure to inorganic arsenic at 0.06 micrograms per kilogram of bodyweight, or 4.8micrograms per day for the average US adult who weighs 176lbs (80kg). For comparison, the uncooked brown rice contained 201 micrograms of inorganic arsenic per kilogram — more than 40 times higher than the recommended daily limit. It means that to stay within the safe limit, an adult could eat no more than 23.9 grams of this rice per day — roughly three tablespoons of uncooked rice. The EPA's limit was set based on studies that showed the minimum safe level to avoid heart disease or diabetes. Inorganic arsenic can contribute to the development of heart disease via causing inflammation within the heart and blood vessels, studies suggest. Research has also indicated that it raises the risk of suffering from cancer, with the EPA considering the element a 'human carcinogen'. Inorganic arsenic differs from organic arsenic because it is more likely to be absorbed into cells, where it can cause damage. About three-quarters of the arsenic found in the rice products were inorganic, though levels varied depending on the product. Overall across all brands tested, the researchers found that uncooked rice contained about 85 micrograms of arsenic per kilogram. The researchers also tested 66 samples of rice alternatives, such as couscous, quinoa and faro, finding the levels of heavy metals in these were 69 percent lower on average. All the rice samples tested in the research were uncooked, with the team noting that cooking rice in water would reduce heavy metal levels. This is because up to 66 percent of arsenic leaches out of the grains when they are cooked in boiling water and the water is drained away, according to a 2019 study. An additional 13 to 84 percent of arsenic can be removed from rice by washing it before cooking. The report's authors recommend cooking rice in a pot with six to ten cups of water per cup of rice, to remove the most arsenic. The USA Rice Federation said: 'We know that arsenic in food is alarming for many consumers and that you may have questions,' a spokesperson said. 'And while we do not agree that there is a public health safety issue as a result of trace amounts of arsenic in rice, we will continue to work with the FDA to ensure the US rice supply meets any threshold established.' For the report, researchers purchased more than 200 rice containers from 20 major metro areas across the US — including New York, Los Angeles and Washington DC. Overall, brown rice contained the most arsenic with an average of 130 micrograms per kilogram. The second highest levels were detected in Arborio, or risotto, rice from Italy, which contained about 100 micrograms of arsenic. White rice had the third highest level, at just below 100 micrograms per kilogram, followed by Jasmine rice from Thailand, at about 80 micrograms. Indian basmati rice and sushi rice grown in California had the lowest levels of the rice tested on average at about 60 micrograms. Roughly three-quarters of the arsenic detected in all the rice brands was inorganic, the report suggests. As part of the research, the organization also tested 66 samples of nine alternative grains like quinoa, faro and barley. These were found to contain 33 micrograms per kilogram of arsenic on average, well below the levels in the average rice. Results also showed they contained 69 percent less heavy metal contamination than rice, on average, making them safer substitutes. The researchers indicated these foods could be better to eat, but noted they were also much more expensive. As a compromise, they suggested people should try to eat rice with lower levels of arsenic — such as California-grown, Thai jasmine and Indian basmati rice. The highest levels of arsenic were detected in brown and white rice grown in Southeast US or labeled simply as 'USA' and in Arborio rice from Italy. A saffron-seasoned rice was also found to contain lead levels up to 32 times higher than the average for other samples. Rice is one of the most popular grains in the US, consumed by more than 257.7million people with the country eating 4.9million metric tons per year — equivalent to about 15 Empire State buildings. But it tends to contain more heavy metals because it is grown in water-logged paddies, where it can easily absorb them from its surroundings. Arsenic is a naturally occurring element found in the Earth's crust, that can exist in both organic and inorganic forms. Scientists are more concerned about inorganic arsenic because this is more readily absorbed into cells, where it can cause damage. It can be released into the environment through mining and smelting metals, or via pesticides, burning coal and incinerating waste.
