Most people cook rice using the two cups of water to one cup of rice method, but scientists warn this could be harmful to health. Research suggests that rice often contains arsenic from industrial toxins and pesticide residues in the soil, potentially increasing the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
Professor Andy Meharg from Queen's University Belfast tested three cooking methods for the BBC programme Trust Me, I'm a Doctor to find the most effective way of reducing arsenic levels. The first method, using two parts water to one part rice and allowing the water to steam out, was the least effective.
The second method used five parts water to one part rice, with the excess water washed away after cooking. This was more effective, but the best results came from soaking rice overnight before cooking. Professor Meharg found this reduced arsenic levels by 80 per cent.
To minimise arsenic exposure, experts recommend either cooking rice in plenty of water—using at least five parts water to one part rice—or steeping it overnight. Both methods help to flush out the harmful toxins, making your rice safer to eat.
