In the comparison between brands of Carnaroli rice resulting from laboratory analyzes and cooking tests carried out by Altroconsumo, a paradox emerges that deserves attention: the most expensive bag among the fifteen examined does not meet the requirements that define Carnaroli. We are talking about Principe Rice, sold at 5.52 euros per kilogram, which failed the test because, according to Altroconsumo, it does not possess the typical morphological characteristics of the declared variety. The problem does not only concern the label, because the evidence suggests inconsistencies in the shape and size of the grains, elements that directly affect the yield in the pot and the ability to maintain al dente cooking.
If you believe that a high price always equals superior quality, the result will be a huge disappointment. The test shows that the cost does not guarantee authenticity or performance in the kitchen, therefore, rather than trusting the brand, it would be better to look at the list of ingredients, the certifications and, when possible, the analytical indications available on the product.
After the comparison dedicated to Basmati rice, in which traces of pesticides and mycotoxins emerged in eight samples, in the next paragraph we will see the new Altroconsumo ranking.
The complete ranking, from bottom to top
While focusing attention on the most serious case, we report the complete ranking, starting from the bottom.
Failed:
Low quality:
Good quality:
Excellent quality:
Safety and contaminants: reassuring signs, but some critical issues
From a health point of view, the findings are generally positive. The laboratories measured cadmium and arsenic, metals that rice tends to accumulate due to exposure to soil and water: the observed concentrations remained below legal limits, with cadmium not detected in half of the samples. Arsenic also remains within thresholds considered safe for consumption.
Research on the presence of mycotoxins offers a substantially calm picture: aflatoxins are not widespread among the samples. An exception concerns the mycotoxin DON (deoxynivalenol), identified in two packages – Delizie dal Sole (Eurospin) and Riso Principe – in quantities that Altroconsumo defines as not alarming, but to be monitored for regulatory and quality relevance.
As regards pesticide residues, analyzes indicate absence or minimal traces in most products; where present, the substances are below the limits set by law and without worrying toxicological profiles.
Compared to quality standards: defects that weigh on the final judgment
The technical evaluation examined the standards of Legislative Decree 131, a rule which establishes parameters such as the percentage of broken grains, immature grains or contamination with other varieties. These characteristics influence cooking, the ability to absorb the seasoning and the creamy consistency that the risotto requires.
On these parameters, some brands have highlighted significant deviations. Curtiriso, Selex, Riso Scotti and Riso Principe do not respect one or more thresholds established by the law: the result translates into a penalized overall rating and a ranking position at the bottom of the page. The case of Riso Principe stands out for its seriousness and economic contradiction: high price, non-compliant performance, and absence of the typical morphology of Carnaroli.
The sensory test: what really matters for risotto
In addition to laboratory data, the tasting panels tested the cooking resistance, the al dente consistency, the ability to retain the seasoning and the creaminess of the finished dish. Let’s remember how Carnaroli rice is famous for its consistent structure and its amylose content which promotes creaminess when cooked correctly. The best evaluated products stood out for the uniformity of the beans, lower percentage of breakages and final yield in the pot.
Practical advice for the attentive consumer
In light of the results, purchasing a Carnaroli that guarantees yield and safety requires attention: comparing price and characteristics is not enough, you need to check the quality indications and prefer brands that report certifications and analytical information. When in doubt, choosing the products that obtained the highest scores in the survey offers a greater chance of success.
