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RI DAILY

Manhattan's little, quieter island and beyond

Reporting Roosevelt Island since sunrise.

10 Reasons to Avoid American-Grown Rice Now

American-grown rice has some potential problems that make it less than ideal for consumption. Here are 10 reasons to avoid American grown rice: by David Stone for Assorted Ideas, Large & Small 1. Pesticides and herbicides: American growers use more...

Assorted Ideas
Rice vermicelli for Bun Cha

American-grown rice has some potential problems that make it less than ideal for consumption. Here are 10 reasons to avoid American grown rice:

by David Stone

for Assorted Ideas, Large & Small

food snow wood dry
Rice spills freely into the American diet, but it’s not as safe as before./Photo by alleksana on Pexels.com

1. Pesticides and herbicides:

American growers use more pesticides and herbicides than any other country in the world.

Pesticides and herbicides are used extensively in American rice production. Significant amounts of these chemicals end up in the finished product, posing a health risk to consumers.

2. Genetically modified crops:

More than 90% of the rice grown in the US is genetically modified.

Genetically modified crops can pose many hazards to consumers. Some of the potential dangers include:

  • Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to the proteins produced by genetically modified crops.
  • Increased cancer risk: Some studies have suggested that certain chemicals used in genetically modified crops may increase the risk of cancer.
  • Antibiotic resistance: There is concern that the overuse of antibiotics in genetically modified crops may lead to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
  • Toxic residues: Genetically modified crops may leave behind toxic residues in food.

3. Arsenic contamination:

Rice is one of the crops that can absorb arsenic from the soil.

Arsenic is a toxic substance that has been linked to cancer and other health problems. exposure to high levels of arsenic can be particularly harmful to young children and pregnant women.

4. Poor soil quality:

The heavy use of chemicals in American rice production has degraded the quality of the soil. Due to years of intensive farming, many American soils are now severely depleted of nutrients.

This leads to a decrease in the nutritional value of the rice and also makes it more difficult for the plant to absorb water and nutrients.

5. High water usage:

Rice is a water-intensive crop.

The irrigation of rice fields can place a strain on local water supplies. In some areas, this has led to the depletion of groundwater reserves.

6. Poor working conditions:

Farmworkers in the US are paid low wages and often work in poor conditions.

They may be exposed to hazardous chemicals and long hours.

7. Lack of diversity:

The vast majority of rice grown in the US is just a few varieties.

This lack of diversity makes the crop more vulnerable to disease and pests.

8. Water pollution:

Rice paddies are a major source of water pollution, due to the use of pesticides and fertilizers.

9. Digestive problems:

Rice can be difficult to digest, and may cause stomach discomfort or constipation.

10. Unsatisfying taste:

Many people find rice to be bland and unappetizing. It usually requires some serious company to make it palatable on your plate.

American Grown Rice Conclusion

For these reasons, it is best to avoid American-grown rice. There are many other varieties of rice available that are not contaminated with pesticides and herbicides, and that have not been genetically modified. These varieties of rice are more nutritious and taste better than American-grown rice.

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Before the Door Closed

Before the Door Closed

In one meeting, RIOC showed that procedure could be used to bless a contested appointment, and then used again to keep a resident-safety resolution from reaching the floor.

The May 14 RIOC board meeting began with public concern over the steam plant and ended with two votes that revealed more than any report could. Some meetings announce themselves by what is said. This one announced itself by what the room permitted to move and what it stopped before it could breathe.

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