Every day, we may be ingesting far more plastic than we realize, according to emerging scientific studies. Recent findings suggest that microplastics have quietly become a serious public health concern, raising alarms among researchers and global organizations. The World Economic Forum, for instance, has labeled the growing presence of microplastics in the human body as “one of the most concerning health crises arising from environmental pollution.”
To understand the seriousness of this issue, it’s important to first understand what microplastics are and how they find their way into our bodies.
Microplastics, or MPs, are extremely small plastic fragments—ranging from microscopic sizes to anything under 5 millimeters. These particles are not just found floating in the ocean or stuck in landfill sites; they have now made their way into human bodies. Studies have found microplastics in places as diverse and sensitive as our bloodstream, excretory waste, joints, arterial plaque, and even critical organs such as the liver, lungs, and brain.
These plastic fragments can originate from a wide variety of sources. Some are deliberately manufactured in small sizes, like the tiny beads found in exfoliating skin care products. Others are produced as a result of the gradual breakdown of larger plastic items, such as tires, furniture, water bottles, food containers, or plastic bags. Synthetic fibers from clothing also shed during washing, contributing significantly to the microplastic load in our environment.
And this environment is now saturated with microplastics. They’re in the air we breathe, the food we consume, the water we drink, and even in the soil where we grow our fruits and vegetables. The extent of our exposure is deeply concerning. A 2019 study by the American Chemical Society, which looked at the caloric intake patterns of about 15% of the American population, estimated that “annual microplastics consumption ranges from 39,000 to 52,000 particles, depending on age and sex. These estimates increase to 74,000 and 121,000 when inhalation is considered.” Importantly, these figures do not even take into account the particles ingested through bottled water, which turns out to be a major culprit.
Many Americans opt for bottled water because they assume it’s cleaner and safer than tap water. A survey aimed at understanding this consumer behavior showed that the top two reasons people prefer bottled water are its “convenience and taste.” However, a study carried out by the State University of New York paints a different and troubling picture. Researchers analyzed 259 samples of bottled water from 11 leading brands across nine countries and found microplastics in 93% of them. Among the types of plastic discovered were nylon, polypropylene, and polyethylene terephthalate. The study revealed that “every liter of water sold had an average of 325 plastic particles.”
Microplastics are not limited to our drinking water. They are also pervasive in our seafood. On the U.S. West Coast, nearly every sample of seafood tested contained microplastics. Researchers in Oregon studied 182 different seafood species and discovered plastic particles in virtually all of them. These particles included microfibers from laundry, residues from personal care products, and fragments from tire degradation. Across the U.S., microplastics have been detected in all major waterways. Other research has shown that 12% of freshwater fish sold for consumption also contain microplastics.
Even a simple cup of tea might not be safe from this invisible threat. If you’re using tea bags, it might be time to reconsider. Some tea bags are made using plastic fibers that can release microplastics into the tea when brewed. Research suggests that “a cup of tea from a tea bag made with plastic fibers could contain about 2.3 million micro-sized plastics.” Moreover, other packaged foods—especially those wrapped in plastic at grocery or convenience stores—also pose significant risks for microplastic contamination.
So, what does this mean for our health? The presence of microplastics in the human body carries numerous potential dangers. These particles are linked to various serious health issues:
- They may trigger inflammation and negatively affect the immune system.
- By disrupting the gut microbiome, microplastics can cause gastrointestinal problems.
- There are cardiovascular risks too, including a heightened chance of heart attacks, strokes, and chronic conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes.
- When inhaled, microplastics can settle in the lungs, leading to respiratory issues.
- Reproductive systems may also be compromised, possibly affecting fertility and fetal development.
- There are concerns that microplastics might contribute to neurological and cognitive disorders.
- While more research is needed, some studies suggest a potential connection between microplastic exposure and certain types of cancer.
Recognizing the magnitude of this issue, the state of California has taken pioneering steps to combat plastic pollution. In 2022, California passed a groundbreaking piece of legislation—the Plastic Pollution Prevention and Packaging Producer Responsibility Act (SB 54). With a timeline extending to 2032, this law places significant obligations on producers and vendors of goods within the state.
The law requires that businesses must:
- Reduce the sale of single-use plastic packaging and foodware by 25%.
- Ensure all single-use packaging and food-related plastics are either recyclable or compostable.
- Achieve a recycling rate of 65% for all such plastic items.
In addition, SB 54 mandates the creation of an industry-funded $5 billion initiative. This fund will support programs specifically targeting plastic pollution, especially in areas that are disproportionately affected.
What can individuals do to reduce their own exposure to microplastics? While it’s impossible to eliminate all risk, there are practical steps that can make a difference:
- Cut back on single-use plastics like bottled water and disposable cups and containers. Instead, consider bringing your own reusable mug to your favorite café.
- Use glass or metal containers, particularly for storing hot food.
- Avoid microwaving food in plastic containers, as the heat can cause plastics to leach into food.
- When it comes to clothing, opt for natural materials like cotton, wool, and linen rather than synthetics such as polyester or nylon.
- Choose fresh and minimally processed foods that are less likely to be exposed to plastic packaging.
The growing presence of microplastics in our lives is no longer just an environmental issue—it’s rapidly becoming a human health crisis. While governments like California are taking action, it is equally essential for individuals to be aware, informed, and proactive in reducing their exposure wherever possible.