I was surprised to learn that apparently eating white rice may increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes ("White rice linked to increased risk of diabetes", The Herald, March 16).

This follows research findings recently hinting that red meat may cause cancers. I ask, what is next?

If these findings are to be taken literally, what (in my view) can we eat?

It would seem to me that almost every product (if rigorously scrutinised) has an element of risk to it.

While these studies are extremely useful and ground-breaking, and should not be criticised in any way, we must not forget that we are exceedingly lucky to live in a society where we can be selective in the foods we eat.

Many other countries do not have the option to pick and choose diets regardless of what may be suggested, and where to some, rice for example, may be the staple (or even only) diet they have.

John G McMenemy,

Braeside Avenue,

Milngavie.