Plastic Particles in Food Could Be Dangerous
New research suggests that microscopic plastic particles commonly found in food and drinks could interfere with the body’s ability to manage blood sugar and may damage the liver. These findings come from a recent study in mice and point to possible health risks for humans.
As plastic waste breaks down in the environment, it forms tiny fragments known as microplastics (less than 5 mm) and nanoplastics (less than 100 nanometers). These particles have been found in seafood, water, packaged foods, and even salt. Some estimates suggest people may unknowingly consume between 40,000 and 10 million plastic particles each year.
Study Overview: Investigating Plastic’s Impact on the Body
To explore the potential health effects of consuming plastic particles, researchers at the University of California, Davis, conducted an animal study using laboratory mice. The study was led by Amy Parkhurst, a doctoral researcher, under the supervision of Dr. Fawaz George Haj.
Their goal was to simulate real-life exposure by feeding the mice a normal diet along with a daily dose of nanoplastics made from polystyrene a common plastic used in food packaging.
Glucose Intolerance and Liver Injury
The mice that consumed polystyrene nanoplastics showed troubling signs compared to the control group:
- Glucose intolerance – a condition where the body struggles to regulate blood sugar, increasing the risk of diabetes.
- Elevated liver enzymes – specifically alanine aminotransferase (ALT), a marker that suggests liver stress or damage.
- Increased gut permeability – often referred to as a “leaky gut,” which allows harmful substances to enter the bloodstream.
- Higher levels of endotoxins – toxic compounds that can worsen liver function.
“These findings confirm and build on what other recent animal studies have shown about the harmful effects of nanoplastics,” said Parkhurst.
Why This Matters
While this research was done in mice, the results raise concerns about the possible long-term health effects of plastic exposure in humans. The digestive system, liver, and metabolic function could all be vulnerable to ongoing, low-level plastic ingestion.
“Our study shows that regular exposure to plastic particles even at realistic levels may affect key biological processes,” Parkhurst noted. “This is a public health issue that deserves more attention.”
Conclusion
The researchers plan to continue studying how nanoplastics affect other organs and body systems. They’re also collaborating with Dr. Elizabeth Neumann at UC Davis to use advanced imaging technology to track how nanoplastics accumulate in tissues and impact metabolism at the cellular level.
Ultimately, this research could help guide regulations and monitoring efforts aimed at reducing plastic exposure through food and the environment.
“More robust scientific data is needed to shape effective policies,” said Parkhurst. “Our findings highlight the urgent need for further investigation.”
Source: Inputs from various media Sources
Priya Bairagi
Reviewed by Dr Aarti Nehra (MBBS, MMST)
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
