Can rice with insects still be safely consumed?

Generally speaking, rice infested with insects is not safe to eat. The detailed analysis is as follows:

When insects move about in rice, they leave behind feces, shed skins, and dead bodies. These impurities are difficult to completely remove even after washing and may carry microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi. Consumption can irritate the gastrointestinal tract and cause discomfort such as abdominal pain and diarrhea. From the perspective of nutrition and taste, infested rice has likely been stored under poor conditions. Insects feeding on the rice grains cause nutrient loss and environmental factors may degrade the rice's texture, diminishing its original plumpness and aroma. Additionally, some insects may lay eggs inside rice grains, which are not visible to the naked eye. Continued consumption poses health risks, especially for elderly people, children, and individuals with weak digestive systems, who are at higher risk.

When rice infestation is detected, it should be promptly isolated from other food items to prevent insect spread and contamination. When storing rice, choose a dry and well-ventilated environment, store it in sealed containers, and consider placing a few cloves of garlic or some dried chili peppers inside the containers to help prevent insect infestation. If the rice is heavily infested, or if there are signs of mold or an unusual odor, it should be discarded immediately and not consumed. Even in cases of minor infestation, it is not advisable to take chances. Prioritizing fresh, insect-free rice better ensures food safety.