Here, There and Everywhere, you can't Escape Microplastics
- Dean Weiss
- Jan 20
- 4 min read
Let me clarify from the outset. At Wise Owl Lifestyle, our aim is not to frighten you without reason, but to inform you, enabling you to make well-considered decisions. Increasing mistrust of municipal tap water has established bottled water as an essential commodity, even in countries with the most strictly tested water supplies. Companies market their plastic bottled water as purer, and healthier; however, scientific evidence tells a different story.
What exactly are microplastics?
Microplastics are plastic fragments ranging from approximately 1 micrometer to 5 millimeters in size, comparable to a speck of dust or a sesame seed. These particles can form when larger plastic items degrade or can be directly released from products during regular use. They ultimately infiltrate our environment, food, and bodies.
Where are microplastics commonly found?
Plastic bottles
Consuming bottled water daily leads to ingesting a significant number of microplastic particles. Individuals can consume between 39 000 and 52 000 microplastic particles each year. Microplastics are released from plastic bottles during manufacturing, storage, transport and consumption, especially when exposed to sunlight and temperature changes. Researchers from Concordia University warn of severe health consequences, noting that plastic bottles should only be used in emergencies. These microplastics have the potential to enter the bloodstream, leading to significant health conditions.
Paper cups
Disposable cardboard coffee cups are typically lined with a thin plastic coating to prevent leaks. When hot liquids such as coffee or tea are poured into these cups, heat and acidity can accelerate degradation of this lining. Tiny plastic particles can then detach and mix with the drink. As the beverage is consumed, these microplastics may be ingested.
Food
Microplastics are prevalent in food packaging, leading to contamination of food even during regular use. An analysis of 103 studies indicates that basic activities, such as using plastic chopping boards, result in the release of microplastics. Additionally, products like plastic-lined pizza boxes and microwaveable containers significantly contribute to the shedding of these particles.
Cling-wrap, made from plastic polymers like polyethylene or PVC, can shed tiny plastic particles due to friction, handling, and temperature changes. This risk is higher if vegetables are warm, acidic, or stored long-term. Microplastics can transfer to vegetables and be ingested if produce is eaten raw or not thoroughly washed, leading to ongoing dietary exposure to microplastics.
What is the impact of microplastics on your health?
Microplastics can affect human health through several plausible and increasingly well-documented pathways. While research is still evolving, there is sufficient evidence to justify concern.
1. Physical presence in the body - Microplastics have been detected in human blood, lungs, placenta, and stool. Their small size allows them to be inhaled or ingested, and some particles may cross biological barriers, potentially accumulating in tissues.
2. Inflammation and cellular stress - Laboratory studies show that microplastics can trigger inflammation, oxidative stress, and cell damage. Chronic low-grade inflammation is associated with cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders, and some cancers.
3. Chemical exposure - Plastics often contain additives such as BPA, phthalates, and flame retardants. Microplastics can also absorb toxic pollutants and heavy metals from the environment. Once inside the body, these chemicals may disrupt hormonal and metabolic systems.
4. Gut and immune system effects - Ingested microplastics may alter gut microbiota and impair the intestinal barrier. This can affect digestion, immune function, and nutrient absorption.
5. Potential long-term risks - Although definitive long-term human studies are limited, existing evidence raises concerns about reproductive health, developmental effects, and increased disease risk with sustained exposure.
In summary, microplastics represent a chronic, cumulative exposure risk. Reducing reliance on single-use plastics, particularly for food and beverages, is a necessary precaution while scientific understanding continues to develop.
How can you prevent the ingestion of microplastics?
Use a reusable cup made of stainless steel, ceramic, or glass for hot beverages to avoid microplastics. If using a disposable cup, choose plastic-lined paper cups over pure plastic ones, though neither is completely microplastic-free. Avoid pouring boiling liquids into plastic-lined containers and ask the barista to prepare coffee at a slightly lower temperature to reduce stress on the plastic lining. Understanding the interaction between heat and material choice helps us make informed decisions about our daily caffeine intake.
To reduce microplastic ingestion from bottled water, prioritise tap water over bottled options when safe, as it generally contains fewer microplastics. If bottled water is necessary, choose reusable glass, aluminum, or stainless-steel containers instead of plastic. Choose brands with advanced filtration processes, such as reverse osmosis, and non-plastic packaging to reduce microplastic content. Avoid exposing bottles to heat or sunlight and refrain from squeezing them to prevent plastic degradation. Choose filtered tap water and consider installing a home filtration system. Boiling tap water prior to consumption can also decrease the intake of microplastics. When traveling, utilise a reusable bottle and refill it at designated safe water stations.
Microplastic ingestion can be reduced through careful food purchasing choices. Select fresh, unpackaged produce or items wrapped in paper rather than plastic. Avoid foods stored in plastic trays, cling wrap, or plastic-lined containers. Choose glass jars, metal cans, or cardboard packaging without plastic coatings. Prefer fresh foods over highly processed items, which often involve multiple plastic contact points during production, storage, and transport.
Avoid using plastic containers for heating food, particularly in microwaves.
Conclusion
The majority of people on Earth are already affected by microplastics, with daily exposure persisting due to the insufficient regulation of these widespread particles. Relying on governments worldwide to address this urgent issue could result in delays in taking action. Therefore, individuals must transition away from plastic and choose more sustainable alternatives. This decision is in the best interest of your health.
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