Importance Score: 75 / 100 🔴
Recent research from the University of California, Los Angeles, has uncovered the presence of microplastics in chewing gum. According to a report in Chemistry for Life, both natural and synthetic gum varieties discharge microscopic plastic particles into the oral cavity during mastication. The investigation, encompassing ten distinct chewing gum brands, demonstrated that all contained microplastics. The report indicated that, on average, “[The lab] quantified the emission of 100 microplastics per gram of gum, with certain individual pieces releasing as many as 600 microplastics per gram.” This finding highlights a potential source of human exposure to microplastic contamination, adding to growing concerns about the accumulation of these particles in the environment and food chain.
Concerns Surrounding Microplastic Exposure
This investigation is not unprecedented. Microplastics have increasingly been the focus of scrutiny, particularly given estimations that individuals ingest between 39,000 and 52,000 microplastic particles annually. When considering inhaled particles, this figure escalates to a range of 74,000 to 121,000 particles.
To further examine the implications of microplastics, we consulted with a family physician regarding what constitutes a “permissible” level of microplastics, the food categories with the highest concentrations, and actionable steps to limit exposure.
Determining Acceptable Microplastic Levels
“There is currently no officially defined ‘safe’ or ‘unsafe’ threshold for microplastic intake. Adopting a strategy to minimize exposure as much as practically feasible is advisable,” stated Dr. Joseph Mercola, a board-certified family medicine osteopathic physician, via email.
Microplastics can permeate our food supply due to contamination at the stages of cultivation, rearing, or processing. Dr. Mercola elucidated that agricultural practices such as utilizing plastic mulch and plastic seed coatings, as well as irrigation with compromised water sources, are mechanisms through which microplastics can contaminate food products. Moreover, plastic-based packaging, utensils, and containers represent supplementary sources.
vCard.red is a free platform for creating a mobile-friendly digital business cards. You can easily create a vCard and generate a QR code for it, allowing others to scan and save your contact details instantly.
The platform allows you to display contact information, social media links, services, and products all in one shareable link. Optional features include appointment scheduling, WhatsApp-based storefronts, media galleries, and custom design options.
According to the US Food and Drug Administration, current evidence does not suggest that microplastic levels in food pose a risk to human health. Nevertheless, individuals may wish to proactively minimize passive microplastic consumption. The subsequent sections outline prevalent food categories containing microplastics and provide strategies to reduce plastic intake.
Top 10 Dietary Sources of Microplastics
Seafood
A principal route for plastic particles to infiltrate our food chain originates from single-use plastics that fragment and subsequently contaminate waterways and soil. Upon reaching marine environments, these plastics accumulate in seafood.
“Microplastics are then assimilated by plankton and erroneously identified as nourishment by fish and shellfish,” Dr. Mercola explained. “These minute particles then accumulate within the flesh, ultimately ending up in human diets.”
A recent study from Portland State University identified diverse microplastic varieties in 180 out of 182 seafood specimens analyzed. Although microfibers represented the most frequent microplastic type detected, other forms also contaminate oceans.
Tea Bags
Polypropylene, a type of plastic, is frequently employed in the production of tea bags. Even paper tea bags may contain microplastics. The concern arises when hot water comes into contact with these bags, potentially releasing microplastics into the brewed tea.
Researchers at the Autonomous University of Barcelona discovered that polypropylene tea bags can release billions of plastic particles, while nylon and cellulose tea bags can discharge millions.
How to Reduce Intake:
It is not necessary to abstain from tea consumption entirely. Consider transitioning to loose-leaf tea and acquiring a stainless steel diffuser to enjoy microplastic-free tea.
Rice
Rice also constitutes a significant reservoir of microplastics. A study from the University of Queensland revealed that each half-cup serving of rice harbors 3 to 4 milligrams of plastic. Instant rice packets exhibit a fourfold increase, containing 13 milligrams.
How to Reduce Intake:
The aforementioned study indicated that rinsing rice can decrease plastic contamination by 20% to 40%, although it is important to note that filtered water was utilized for rinsing in the research.
Salt and Sugar
The addition of salt to meals may unintentionally introduce microplastics. Salt is ubiquitous in diets, and sodium is essential for maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance within the human body.
Regrettably, one study determined that 90% of the 39 salt brands examined globally contained microplastics. This is likely attributable to environmental contamination and plastic utilization in the production and packaging processes. Microplastics have also been detected in sugar.
How to Reduce Intake:
To minimize exposure to microplastics from salt and sugar, opt for products packaged in glass or cardboard.
Bottled Water
Bottled water represents a well-recognized source of micro and nanoplastics. One study estimated approximately 240,000 plastic particulates per liter of bottled water. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic, commonly used in plastic water bottles, was predictably identified. Plastic particle shedding occurs when bottles are subjected to pressure or heat. PET plastic is not the sole nanoplastic type researchers have identified in plastic water bottles.
How to Reduce Intake:
Consuming tap water from a stainless steel or glass container can lessen the risk of ingesting plastic particles.
Honey
Honey, even when packaged in glass jars, may unexpectedly contain microplastics. Microplastic fibers can be traced back to bees and environmental pollution. A study investigating microplastic incorporation into hives via honeybees demonstrated that bees can facilitate the dispersal of microplastics through honey production.
How to Reduce Intake:
Purchasing honey from local beekeepers, who often employ more natural and sustainable harvesting methodologies, may reduce the likelihood of microplastic contamination.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are integral to a balanced dietary regimen. However, they may also harbor microplastics. A study analyzing fruits and vegetables determined that apples exhibited the highest contamination among fruits, and carrots among vegetables. The mechanism of contamination?
“Plants have been shown to absorb micro- and nanoplastics from soil through their root systems, thereby contaminating the edible portions,” Dr. Mercola stated.
Furthermore, many grocery outlets utilize plastic packaging for fruits and vegetables to maintain freshness. While the FDA states insufficient evidence to conclude that microplastics from food packaging migrate into food, Dr. Mercola advises minimizing such exposure whenever possible.
How to Reduce Intake:
Thoroughly wash fruits, peel them when feasible, and prioritize local or organic produce.
Proteins
A recent study from Ocean Conservancy researchers found that 88% of vegetable and animal proteins contained some level of microplastics. Notably, highly processed proteins, such as plant-based alternatives, fish sticks, or chicken nuggets, exhibited the highest microplastic levels, suggesting food processing as a partial source of contamination. Breaded shrimp averaged 300 microplastic pieces per serving, while plant-based nuggets contained 100 pieces.
Beyond food processing, animal feeds and rearing environments also contribute to microplastic contamination in protein sources. Plant-based alternatives can be contaminated via soil or irrigation.
How to Reduce Intake:
While concerns about protein sources and microplastics exist, further research is warranted to ascertain precise levels and health impacts. Protein remains essential for bodily functions, underscoring the importance of adequate intake from preferred sources.
Read more: An Easy Protein Visual Guide to Help You Reach Maximum Muscle Gains
Health Implications of Microplastics in Food
Do all foods invariably contain microplastics? Definitive certainty remains elusive. Further research is imperative to fully comprehend the health ramifications of consuming foods containing microplastics. Despite ongoing investigations into long-term health effects, microplastics warrant attention and proactive exposure reduction measures, as Dr. Mercola emphasized.
“Ingested microplastics have been detected accumulating within the circulatory system and various organs, including the brain, potentially inducing inflammation and tissue damage,” stated Dr. Mercola.
Additional potential side effects include hormonal imbalances resulting from endocrine-disrupting chemicals present in plastics. Microplastics can also adsorb environmental toxins, facilitating their introduction into the body.
Although no established safe level exists, and complete elimination of microplastics proves challenging due to their ubiquity, minimizing exposure where feasible remains prudent.
Expert Recommendations for Reducing Microplastic Intake
Consider these recommendations to decrease intake:
- Moderate shellfish consumption
Shellfish, such as mussels, oysters, and scallops, exhibit higher microplastic levels; therefore, moderation is advised. - Avoid plastic food-storage containers
Dr. Mercola emphasizes this due to “plasticizing chemicals” in plastic. BPA and phthalates, endocrine-disrupting chemicals capable of migrating from plastic to food, are more readily transferred to fatty foods. Glass containers are preferable for storing fatty foods; plastic may suffice for dry goods. - Limit plastic-wrapped foods
While challenging, striving to select non-plastic-wrapped alternatives where possible is beneficial. - Replace plastic kitchen utensils
Plastic utensils that contact food, including spoons and cutting boards, can contribute to microplastic ingestion. Opt for ceramic, glass, stainless steel, or wood alternatives for any items in contact with food.
To contribute to mitigating broader microplastic contamination, installing a filter in clothes-washing machines is beneficial. Specialized filters can capture microfibers, preventing water system pollution. The PlanetCare 2.0 microfiber filter is an example.
Further research is essential to comprehensively understand microplastics and their long-term health impacts upon ingestion. While the prevalence of microplastics in numerous food categories is concerning, maintaining a balanced diet rich in protein, fruits, and vegetables remains crucial for overall health and well-being, irrespective of microplastic concerns.