Alexei Volkov
Microplastics are present in almost everything we eat and drink, with plastic pollution in the ocean and environment contributing to this issue. A 2024 study found that a litre of bottled water contained an average of 240,000 plastic particles, while a 2023 study found coarse Himalayan pink salt to have the highest levels of microplastics, followed by black salt and marine salt. Breaded shrimp and plant-based nuggets are also among the foods with the highest levels of microplastics, with an average of 300 and 100 microplastic pieces per serving, respectively. Other foods with notable microplastic contamination include rice, tea, sugar, and fruits and vegetables, such as apples and carrots.
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What You'll Learn
Bottled water
Nanoplastics, measuring less than one micron, are extremely small and invisible to the naked eye. They are believed to be even more toxic than microplastics due to their ability to easily enter the bloodstream and impact vital organs. On the other hand, microplastics, ranging from 5mm to 1 micron in size, can also have harmful effects on the body. These plastic particles can shed from the bottles and contaminate the water, especially when exposed to heat or sunlight, or during reuse.
The International Bottled Water Association has stated that there is a lack of standardised methods and scientific consensus on the health impacts of consuming these plastic particles. However, researchers have identified up to seven types of plastic in bottled water, with 90% of the particles being small enough to infiltrate the bloodstream. This has sparked concerns about the potential consequences for human health, especially considering the widespread consumption of bottled water.
To minimise the ingestion of plastic particles, experts recommend drinking tap water from glass or stainless steel containers. These alternatives are less likely to shed plastic particles into the water, reducing potential health risks associated with plastic consumption. While bottled water may be convenient, the presence of plastic pollutants underscores the importance of opting for more sustainable and healthier alternatives whenever possible.
While the health effects of consuming nanoplastics and microplastics are still being studied, the high levels of plastic particles in bottled water are concerning. The potential for these particles to enter the human body and impact organs is a serious issue that warrants further investigation and highlights the need for consumers to be vigilant about their water sources and the potential presence of plastic contaminants.
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Seafood
The contamination of seafood with plastic is a global issue, with contaminated fish and shellfish found everywhere from Europe to China. This is due to the vast amount of plastic waste that ends up in the sea each year—approximately 8 million tonnes—which is then ingested by marine life. As a result, microplastics in the ocean accumulate persistent organic pollutants (POPs) such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and pesticides like DDT. These pollutants have been linked to serious health problems in humans, including endocrine disorders, reproductive issues, cancer, cardiovascular disease, obesity, and diabetes.
The extent of the toxicity of consuming microplastics is likely dependent on the size, associated chemicals, and dose. While the physical effects of accumulated microplastics are not yet fully understood, preliminary research has demonstrated potentially concerning impacts, including enhanced inflammatory response, size-related toxicity, chemical transfer of adsorbed chemical pollutants, and disruption of the gut microbiome.
To address the issue of plastic pollution in seafood, many countries have set goals for the elimination or reduction of single-use plastic items, with 60 countries currently imposing bans or taxes on their use.
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Salt
A later study in 2022 analyzed seven common Australian commercial salts and found that microplastic contamination was higher in terrestrial salts such as black salt and Himalayan pink salt. The highest content was found in Himalayan salt. This suggests that the contamination in mined salts might originate from manufacturing, packaging, atmospheric, or storage processes.
The presence of microplastics in salt has been a concern for food safety, and the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a maximum salt consumption of 5 grams per day for adults. However, this value is exceeded in most countries, with a global salt intake of around 10 grams per day.
While the long-term effects of ingesting microplastics are still being studied, early findings suggest potential health risks. Microplastics in food can carry harmful chemicals, and their ingestion may introduce toxins to the food chain, where they can bioaccumulate.
To reduce microplastic consumption, individuals can proactively choose microplastic-free salt options and buy groceries with less plastic packaging. Some recommended microplastic-free salt brands include Vera Salt, sourced from an ancient spring in Spain.
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Tea
The presence of microplastics in tea poses potential health risks, as highlighted in a study where patients with microplastics or nanoplastics in their neck arteries had an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and premature death. Additionally, studies on mice exposed to microplastics have shown disruptions in the gut biome, reduced sperm quality and testosterone levels, and impaired learning and memory.
To address this issue, some tea companies like Lipton and Twinings have committed to transitioning to plastic-free tea bags. These plastic-free alternatives often use biodegradable materials such as corn starch, plant-based bioplastics, or polylactic acid (PLA). PLA is a compostable bioplastic that produces fewer greenhouse gases than petroleum-based plastics. However, it is important to note that PLA may not fully biodegrade in home composting systems unless in very hot and humid climates.
Some recommended brands for plastic-free tea bags include Abel & Cole, whose tea bags are made from corn-starch and are fully biodegradable and glue-free. The Republic of Tea also offers plastic-free, compostable tea bags that come in reusable tins instead of individual envelopes. Numi Tea provides plastic-free and compostable tea bags, with envelopes made from PLA. For loose-leaf tea options, consider Cup and Kettle, Inner Grove Tea Company, Sage Mountain Natural Foods, Wenatchee Natural Foods, or Mountain Rose Herbs.
By choosing plastic-free tea options, consumers can play a vital role in reducing plastic pollution and potential health risks associated with microplastics in tea.
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Pre-packaged meals
Firstly, the packaging used for pre-packaged meals is predominantly plastic, and it is usually designed for single-use. This means that a significant amount of plastic waste is generated from these meals, much of which ends up in landfills, where it can take hundreds to even a million years to degrade. The accumulation of plastic waste in landfills has severe environmental repercussions. As the plastic slowly breaks down, it releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change and harms air quality. Additionally, chemicals from the plastic packaging can leach into the groundwater and soil, contaminating our natural resources.
Secondly, the very food inside pre-packaged meals is often tainted with plastic chemicals. A study by Consumer Reports found that 79% of food samples contained bisphenol A (BPA) and other bisphenols, as well as phthalates. These chemicals are linked to a range of health concerns, including hormonal disruption, potentially increasing the risk of birth defects, cancer, diabetes, infertility, neurodevelopmental disorders, and obesity. Pre-packaged meals, with their extensive supply chains and complex processing, may contribute to this issue by exposing the food to multiple sources of plastic contamination.
While the convenience of pre-packaged meals is undeniable, it is important to be aware of the hidden costs. The plastic pollution associated with these meals has far-reaching consequences for the environment and human health. To mitigate these impacts, consumers can opt for more sustainable packaging options, support companies that use eco-friendly materials, and advocate for greener industry practices.
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Frequently asked questions
A 2023 study found that coarse Himalayan pink salt mined from the ground had the most microplastics, followed by black salt and marine salt. Other foods that contain high levels of microplastics include breaded shrimp, plant-based nuggets, bottled water, and rice.
Plastic can get into food through various means, including plastic packaging, plastic containers, and plastic tubing used during production and processing. Plastic pollution in the environment, especially in water, can also contaminate crops and seafood.
Consuming plastic can pose several health risks. Microplastics can damage human cells, decrease reproductive health, and disrupt the endocrine system. They can also act as a vessel for harmful chemicals to enter the body, increasing the risk of cancer, weakened immune systems, birth defects, diabetes, infertility, and neurodevelopmental disorders.
To reduce your plastic consumption, avoid buying bottled water and opt for a non-plastic reusable water bottle. Minimize the purchase of pre-packaged meals, especially those in plastic containers. Choose whole foods and avoid processed foods wrapped in plastic. Also, be mindful of the plastic content in the products you use, such as clothing and household items.
