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Rice Arsenic Accumulation Mitigated by Agricultural Sulfur Applications: Insights from Two-Year Mesocosm Experiments
Suyun Li1, Shurong Liu2, Shuai Zhang3,4
1School of Ecology, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen 518107, People's Republic of China.
Environmental Science & Technology
|March 31, 2026
Summary
Sulfur fertilization significantly reduces toxic inorganic arsenic in rice grains by inhibiting root-to-grain transfer. This agricultural practice offers a promising strategy for lowering dietary arsenic exposure and improving food safety.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Environmental Chemistry
- Food Safety
Background:
- Arsenic accumulation in rice is a global health concern.
- The effect of sulfur application on arsenic behavior in rice systems is not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of sulfur fertilization on arsenic transfer from soil to rice grains.
- To assess the mechanisms by which sulfur influences arsenic uptake and translocation in rice.
Main Methods:
- Two-year open-air mesocosm experiments.
- Global meta-analysis of existing studies.
- Analysis of arsenic speciation in different plant parts and soil components.
Main Results:
- Sulfate fertilizers reduced inorganic arsenic in rice grains by up to 46%.
- Sulfur decreased total arsenic in grains, leaves, and stems, but not in roots or iron plaque.
- Sulfur primarily inhibited root-to-grain arsenic translocation, not iron plaque binding.
Conclusions:
- Targeted sulfur fertilization can effectively reduce dietary inorganic arsenic exposure from rice.
- Soil pH and organic carbon content are key factors influencing mitigation efficacy.
- Speciation-resolved monitoring is crucial to avoid potential toxicological risks associated with methylated arsenic compounds.
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