Microplastics in bottled water might be a big deal
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Disposable water bottles are a concern for many because, first, they are an environmental nightmare. Second, they are incredibly overpriced. But let’s ignore both those facts for a moment and think about that refreshing cold bottle of water on a hot day.
Imagine opening a bottle of water, expecting a pure and refreshing drink, only to learn that you’re also consuming tiny particles known as microplastics. Recent studies have raised concerns about the presence of these minuscule particles in bottled water and their potential impact on health and the environment.
Findings from Columbia University and Rutgers University have unveiled alarming levels of microplastics and nanoplastics in bottled water, far surpassing previous estimates.
The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, discovered about 240,000 plastic fragments per liter, challenging our perceptions of water purity.
Microplastics, larger than nanoplastics, alongside these even tinier particles, pose potential health risks due to their ability to be mistaken for natural cell components. Employing advanced techniques like stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) microscopy, researchers identified these particles, shedding light on the growing issue of plastic pollution.
Microplastics are plastic particles smaller than five millimeters.
They can come from larger plastic items that degrade over time or from consumer products like cosmetics that purposefully have microplastics in their formula. Unfortunately, these tiny particles have found their way into our oceans, rivers and, now, bottled water.
The widespread use of plastics and inadequate disposal have led to an increase in microplastic pollution. As plastics break down, they form microplastics, which are then ingested by marine life and can make their way up the food chain to humans.
The discovery of microplastics in bottled water suggests that no water source is immune to contamination, highlighting the pervasive nature of plastic pollution.
Scientists also tested tap water. Microplastics were detected in the tap water, but in much smaller quantities. More testing will have to be done to figure out the cause.
While research is still ongoing, there is concern about the potential health impacts of consuming microplastics. These particles can carry toxins that, once ingested, may pose risks to human health. Additionally, the long-term effects of microplastic ingestion are not yet fully understood, raising questions about chronic exposure.
What are the consequences of 80plus years of microplastic build-up in the blood and tissue? This unknown is what scientists are most worried about.
This study emphasizes the urgent need for further research on the health implications of plastic consumption and calls for a reevaluation of our reliance on plastic products.
Choosing tap water over bottled water and supporting policies aimed at reducing plastic waste can help minimize our exposure to microplastics and protect the environment.