PH
Rice can absorb inorganic arsenic from soil and water more readily than many other food crops.
Rinsing rice before cooking can remove some contaminants and surface material, but it doesn't necessarily eliminate arsenic stored within the grain.
Cooking rice in excess water and draining the extra water can reduce inorganic arsenic more than cooking with only enough water to be fully absorbed, although this can also reduce some nutrients.
Eating a varied diet is another practical way to avoid relying too heavily on a single grain.
The important point is that arsenic in rice isn't simply something sitting on the surface waiting to be washed away.
© U.S. Food and Drug Administration