Arsenic in rice

Advice on safe levels of arsenic in rice and rice milk.
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Young children and rice milk

Rice is often used to make a drink that can be used as a substitute for milk. Toddlers and young children aged one to four and a half years should not be given rice milk as a substitute for:

  • breast milk
  • infant formula
  • cows’ milk

This is because, compared to other consumers, they tend to drink more milk and have a lower bodyweight.

There are a number of alternatives to suit young children with an allergy or intolerance to cows’ milk or soya. Talk to a health professional such as a doctor or dietician to find a suitable milk alternative.

Children over four and a half years old and adults can drink rice milk as part of their diet.

Keeping rice safe

Since January 2016 there have been maximum limits on the levels of inorganic arsenic allowed in rice and rice products in the EU. The maximum limits for substances that contaminate our environment are regularly reviewed. Manufacturers are responsible for making sure the food they produce is safe and as low in arsenic as reasonably achievable.