Rice and Bacillus cereus: The Forgotten Cause of “Fried Rice Syndrome”

Rice and Bacillus cereus: The Forgotten Cause of “Fried Rice Syndrome”

Rice is a staple food for more than half of the world’s population. It is versatile, affordable, and often prepared in large batches for households, restaurants, and catered events. Yet rice also carries a hidden risk when it is not handled properly. The bacterium Bacillus cereus is a common culprit behind foodborne illness, particularly in rice dishes. In fact, the condition is so well known in food safety circles that it has earned the nickname “fried rice syndrome.” Despite its global prevalence, many people remain unaware of this hazard or underestimate its seriousness.

What is Bacillus cereus?

Bacillus cereus is a spore-forming bacterium that naturally occurs in soil and is commonly found in a variety of foods,