Notice of Health Canada’s Proposal to Add Maximum Levels for Inorganic Arsenic in Polished (White) and Husked (Brown) Rice to the List of Contaminants and Other Adulterating Substances in Foods – Reference Number: NOP/ADP C-2019-2

June 14, 2019

Background

Health Canada has conducted a scientific assessment which supports the establishment of maximum levels (MLs) for inorganic arsenic in polished (white) and husked (brown) rice. These MLs would also apply to these types of rice when used as ingredients in other foods.

The Government is also collecting more data on rice-based foods, including products for infants and young children. This will inform the Department's future consideration of whether additional MLs for such foods are required. If it is determined that additional MLs for other rice-based foods are warranted, then Health Canada will announce its intention to establish these MLs via a separate Notice.

The purpose of this communication is to publically announce the Department's intention in this regard and to provide the appropriate contact information for any inquiries or feedback on the new maximum levels for inorganic arsenic in rice and the proposed next steps for other rice-based foods.

Information Document

Health Canada's Proposal to Add Maximum Levels for Inorganic Arsenic in Polished (White) and Husked (Brown) Rice in the List of Contaminants and Other Adulterating Substances in Foods - Reference Number: NOP/ADP C-2019-2

Contact Information

Health Canada's Food Directorate is committed to reviewing any new scientific information on inorganic arsenic in rice, including data or information on arsenic levels, reduction strategies, or other relevant information specific to arsenic in rice-based foods for infants and young children. Anyone wishing to submit new scientific information on this proposal or to submit any inquiries may do so in writing, by regular mail or electronically. If you wish to contact the Food Directorate electronically, please use the words "Arsenic MLs for Rice" in the subject line of your e-mail. Health Canada is able to consider comments or information received by August 27, 2019, 75 days from the date of this posting.

Bureau of Chemical Safety, Food Directorate
251 Sir Frederick Banting Driveway
Tunney's Pasture, PL: 2202C
Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0L2
E-mail: hc.bcs-bipc.sc@canada.ca

Supporting Information

Chemical Contaminants