A Warning About Infant Rice Cereal

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is taking steps to lower the amount of inorganic arsenic in infant rice cereal.

The FDA is requiring manufacturers of infant rice cereal to lower inorganic arsenic levels in their products.

FDA officials are concerned about arsenic exposure in infants and pregnant women. This concern is based on evidence that inorganic arsenic exposure in infants and pregnant women may result in lower scores in certain developmental tests measuring a child's learning.

The FDA recommends eating a well-balanced diet and avoiding eating or drinking any item in excess.

When it comes to common "starter" foods for infants, infant rice cereal is near the top of the list. With this being said, it's OK to feed a baby iron-fortified cereals because they are a good source of nutrients, according to the FDA. However, the FDA does note that iron-fortified cereals should not be the only source of nutrition and do not need to be the first source.

The FDA goes on to recommend giving infants other cereals like oat, barley and multigrain.

When it comes to toddlers, the agency recommends a well-balanced diet rich in grains. For expecting mothers, the FDA also recommends eating a well-balanced diet. Pregnant women should try to eat a variety of foods, including a variety of grains.

Speak to your doctor or pediatrician about the best nutrition for you and your baby.