A market basket survey of As, Zn and Se in rice imports in Qatar: Health implications

- Qatar is dependent on imports and vulnerable to food quality in global markets.
- This study shows no significant health risk of exposure to As in imported rice.
- Rice contributes a significant portion of nutritional requirements for Se and Zn.
- Rice-based infant cereal may contribute significantly to As exposure for children.

Qatar is dependent on importation of rice, its staple dish, and is therefore susceptible to compromises of food quality in the global market. This market basket study assesses potential health risks of As exposure from rice consumption in Qatar and examines its contribution to the recommended nutritional intakes (RNI) for Zn and Se. Fifty-six rice types and 12 products sold in Qatar were analyzed by ICP/MS. Mean concentrations and ranges were 96.2 ± 54.1 μg/kg (9.76-258 μg/kg) for As; 12.5 ± 5.35 mg/kg (2.79-29.9 mg/kg) for Zn and 103 ± 113 μg/kg (<5.94-422 μg/kg) for Se. Calculated risk quotient shows rice consumption in Qatar is not a significant route of As exposure but can contribute up to 100% and 50% of the RNI for Se and Zn, respectively. Results indicate that children in Qatar may be at elevated risk of arsenic exposure from rice-based infant cereals but more data is needed to obtain a definitive assessment.