Nearly 90% of the rice consumed in Haiti comes from the United States. However, it contains heavy metals, according to a recent study by the University of Michigan.
Imported rice is on average twice as contaminated with arsenic and cadmium as locally produced rice. A child who eats around 200 grams of rice per day ingests a dose of arsenic higher than authorized health standards. A rate beyond which the child can eventually develop skin problems or even cancer. It would be much better if they grew, sold and consumed food produced at home.