The investigation concerns eight Basmati rices available in Italian large-scale retail trade. The analyzes reveal the presence of traces of pesticides and a critical picture for mycotoxins: five samples contain aflatoxins and in one case the quantity of aflatoxin B1 exceeds the threshold established by the regulation (2 μg/kg). For Altroconsumo, the overall evaluation of the products is therefore unsatisfactory.
Perfume and elegance are not enough to guarantee safety
Basmati rice is grown mainly in India and Pakistan, and is famous for the delicate aroma and lightness of the grain, qualities that have made it a symbol of international cuisine. However, the analysis shows that the purity promoted by labels does not always coincide with laboratory results. Aflatoxins are mycotoxins produced by molds that proliferate in heat and humidity conditions, the presence of which represents a truly significant risk, especially in the case of frequent consumption.
The worst of the test
The sample indicated as most critical is Basmati Curtiriso rice: the analyzes highlight levels of aflatoxin B1 above the legal limit and the presence of other aflatoxins (B2, G1 and G2). For Altroconsumo, this profile requires avoiding the purchase of the product. Even the other samples do not appear free from problems: in four out of eight cases the aflatoxins, although remaining below the legal threshold, are still significant from a health point of view.
Pesticides: limits respected, but the substances detected are worrying
In addition to mycotoxins, analyzes identified pesticide residues in almost half of the samples analyzed. In all cases the concentrations fall within the legislative limits, but the identity of some substances raises concern: they are active ingredients banned in the European Union and still used in their countries of origin. Some of the pesticides found are classified as endocrine disruptors by ANSES or as CMR substances (carcinogenic, mutagenic or toxic for reproduction) by the EU. Even at low doses, their presence raises questions about the real safety of the product.
European alert and regulatory framework
The problem is not confined to national tests. In the first six months of 2025, the Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF) reported 66 cases of contamination related to imported Basmati rice, mostly from India and Pakistan. The main causes indicate banned pesticides and aflatoxins above the permitted threshold. On average, according to reports, a consignment of Basmati is blocked or withdrawn at European borders every three days, a rate that describes a structural criticality in supplies.
Industry reactions
The Ente Nazionale Risi defined the situation as “intolerable” and asked for more stringent criteria for exports to Europe. The request points to mutual rules and stricter controls along the production and shipping chains.
