Awareness is growing among the public regarding the presence of microplastics in their food and beverages. Studies have detected these particles in various seafood items, with nearly all fish and shellfish samples testing positive for them.
The production of plastic has been steadily rising since the 1960s, leading to approximately eight million metric tons of plastic entering the oceans each year. Sunlight exposure and wave action contribute to the breakdown of plastic into microplastics – tiny fragments less than 5mm in size.
According to environmental expert Catherine Rolph, microplastics are not limited to seafood but can also be present in other food items. She highlighted that while people are becoming more aware of microplastics in seafood, the exposure from other foods is more widespread than commonly understood.
Research indicates that individuals may ingest anywhere from zero to 1.5 million microplastic particles per day through their food and drinks. Rolph has identified five surprising food items known to contain microplastics.
She explained that chewing gum, often made from a gum base containing plastics and rubber, can release microplastics as it is chewed. Even natural gums made with plant polymers can release similar amounts of microplastics. To minimize exposure, it is suggested to chew one piece of gum for a longer duration rather than consuming multiple pieces.
Catherine Rolph, an expert in Environmental Engineering at The Open University, pointed out that salt, despite its simplicity, has been found to be contaminated with microplastics. She mentioned that 94% of salt products globally tested positive for microplastics, with sea salt being considered an indicator of microplastic pollution in marine environments.
Studies have revealed that fruits and vegetables can also harbor microplastics, with particles as small as nanoplastics entering plants through their roots. While apples and carrots were identified as highly contaminated, the overall levels of microplastic contamination in fresh produce are relatively low compared to heavily processed foods.
Teabags are not the sole source of microplastics in beverages, with tea leaves, coffee, and milk also susceptible to contamination. The use of disposable plastic-lined cups for hot drinks is a significant source of microplastic exposure, and switching to cold beverages or using glass bottles for milk can help reduce intake.
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