FDA Addresses Arsenic in Rice, Brown Rice Syrup Concerns in Formula

The Food and Drug Administration has stated that it is not aware of any brand of infant formula containing organic brown rice syrup (OBRS), although one brand of toddler formula uses OBRS as a sweetener. The label for this product, however, states that it is for use in children older than 12 months, and also warns that a health care professional should be consulted before using it for infants under 12 months of age. FDA's statement was made due to concerns of trace amounts of arsenic in foods. In response to these concerns, FDA has expanded its surveillance activities in rice. FDA began a further study of arsenic in rice and rice products in October 2011 to determine the level and types of arsenic typically found in these products. According to the FDA, the study is scheduled to be complete in Spring 2012.