Climate Change Could Make Arsenic in Rice Even More Dangerous

Rice might be the comfort food for billions, but new research is raising serious health concerns about how it’s grown in a warming world. According to a study co-authored by Columbia University’s Lewis Ziska and reported by Amanda Ruggeri for BBC Future, rising carbon dioxide levels and temperatures are increasing the amount of inorganic arsenic in rice—posing a growing threat to global health.

Inorganic arsenic is a known carcinogen that can also raise the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and developmental problems. While all rice contains some level of arsenic, the study found that warming and rising CO₂ levels stimulate arsenic-loving bacteria in flooded rice paddies. These microbes make arsenic more available to the plant, meaning the grains we eat absorb more of it.

The 10-year study spanned 28 rice varieties across China and modeled potential health impacts through 2050. One estimate projected an additional 19.3 million cancer cases in China alone if trends continue unchecked. The effects wouldn’t be limited to Asia—arsenic is found in rice globally, including in the U.S., Europe, and South America.

There are ways to reduce exposure. Cooking rice by parboiling it and using excess water can remove some arsenic. Choosing white or basmati rice over brown rice also helps. But the bigger issue is how rice is grown—most rice is cultivated in flooded fields, a method that unfortunately boosts arsenic absorption.

This is yet another reason why sustainable farming, emissions cuts, and shifting toward diverse, plant-based diets should be top priorities. Supporting agricultural practices that reduce chemical exposure and help the planet isn’t just good for the environment—it’s essential for human health, too.

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