Rice is a cereal that is consumed by a large part of the population. In France, we eat about 5.3 kg of rice per person per year. If this consumption is small compared to the amount of pasta we drink (8.6 kg), it remains significant. So is this a good thing? Actually, you may not know, but rice contains a substance that is completely dangerous for our body. This is an insidious poison that you know very well. Its name: Arsenic. This deadly poison is therefore hidden in the grains we eat every day. These, in more or less equal proportions. On contact with water, and therefore during cooking, the poison is absorbed into the rice. Remember that this substance is carcinogenic. That being said, you can definitely eat it while limiting the risks. Let’s know how to get rid of arsenic…
To limit your exposure to arsenic as best as possible, there are solutions. The first remains the least encouraging. This includes, surprisingly, limiting your consumption and replacing rice with other grains from time to time. Like bulgur, quinoa or even semolina and pasta. For those who can’t do without rice, sure. You just have to pay attention to the grain while cooking (no pun intended). To do this, consider pre-washing or rinsing your rice or letting it soak. By absorption or excess water, a large amount of arsenic will already be removed. This way, your body will thank you. The most effective method remains steaming with absorption. Also note that it applies to all types of rice.
The best cooking method to remove this poison
The method of boiling rice involves pouring one liter of water for just one cup of rice. After boiling it for 5 minutes, you have to drain only the water that contains arsenic. Once done, you will add boiling water. About 500 ml for one cup. Then, cover your rice and cook it on medium heat till the water evaporates completely. Another caveat regarding this popular cereal. Do not reheat it in the microwave! Indeed, according to a study published by the International Journal of Food Biology, bacteria can thrive in extreme heat. This can lead to food poisoning… If you can, also remember to soak your rice overnight. It appears that this can remove about 80% of its arsenic content. Also choose your source, as some brands contain more pesticides than others…
