Ninety percent of animal and vegetable protein samples tested positive for microplastics, ranging in size from less than 0.2 inches to 1/25,000th of an inch. Even fruits and vegetables can absorb microplastics through their root systems and transfer them to their edible parts. Salt, sugar, tea bags, and rice are also sources of microplastic exposure. Bottled water contains an average of 240,000 plastic particles per liter, including nanoplastics, which are even smaller and more concerning for human health. Microplastics have been found in the human lung, maternal and fetal placental tissues, human breast milk, and human blood. A recent study found that people with microplastics in their arteries in the neck were twice as likely to have a heart attack, stroke, or die from any cause over the next three years. Experts recommend reducing plastic exposure by avoiding foods and drinks packaged in plastic, choosing natural materials for clothing and consumer products, and eating more fresh foods.
How Much Plastic Will You Have for Dinner? And You, Ma’am?
