Is rice contaminated with Arsenic? NGT’s probe raises concerns
Prompted by a Times Now news article titled ‘Arsenic in Food: Should you wash rice before cooking it?’, the National Green Tribune (NGT) has summoned responses from the Union Agriculture and Environment Ministries along with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
According to a Bar and Bench report, chaired by Justice Prakash Shrivastava, with members Justice Arun Kumar Tyagi and Dr A Senthil Vel, the NGT initiated the case suo motu based on the concerning revelations in the news article.
As per the report, the tribunal’s concern stems from the toxicity of arsenic, naturally occurring in soil and water, which poses significant health risks if ingested.
“The matter relates to the presence of arsenic in rice as warned by experts that can be poisonous for human body. As per the article, arsenic found naturally in soil and water is considered toxic and can be easily washed away by soaking and washing the rice properly,” the order dated 16 May recorded.
The Times Now article also reported that Arsenic, found in varying levels across different regions, seeps into the food chain, raising alarm bells for public health. The rise in arsenic pollution is attributed to various human activities, including the use of pesticides, herbicides, wood preservatives, phosphate fertilizers, industrial waste, mining operations, coal burning, and smelting.
Rice, grown in flooded fields, is particularly vulnerable to arsenic contamination due to its water absorption properties. Therefore, experts have suggested rinsing the rice before cooking stating, “Rinsing helps wash away undesirable materials including any leftover debris like dirt or small pebbles, which can be detrimental to your health. Also, washing helps remove micro plastics from food packaging.”
The article further highlighted on the symptoms of arsenic poisoning:
· Red or swollen skin
· Eruption of new warts or lesions
· Abdominal pain
· Nausea and vomiting
· Diarrhoea
· Abnormal heart rhythm
· Muscle cramps
· Tingling of fingers and toes
· Darkening of skin
· Constant sore throat
· Persistent digestive issues
Citing the World Health Organization (WHO), the NGT highlighted the long-term health consequences of arsenic exposure, including skin-related symptoms and even fatalities. Such revelations underscore the need for stringent adherence to environmental norms and the effective implementation of existing laws.
Consequently, the NGT has called upon the CPCB and concerned ministries to provide explanations, with further hearings scheduled for September 2.
