A sweeping new study has revealed that simply using food packaging as intended can contaminate your meals with invisible microplastics. Researchers reviewed 103 scientific studies and found that common actions, like opening a plastic drink bottle or microwaving food in plastic, can release tiny plastic particles into what you eat.
Plastic is nearly impossible to avoid, as it’s used in everything from drink bottles to chopping boards. Over time, though, even sturdy plastic items shed micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs). These particles are too small to see. They easily enter the human body.
MICROPLASTICS FOUND THROUGHOUT THE HUMAN BODY
Scientists have detected microplastics in almost every organ studied, including placentas and even mouse fetuses.
Although research on health impacts is still emerging, early findings are troubling. One study found that cardiac patients with high levels of microplastics in their arteries faced a significantly higher risk of death. Their risk was notably elevated. These patients faced a notably elevated risk.
STUDY FINDS MICROPLASTICS IN 96% OF FOOD PACKAGING TESTS
The research team, led by biologist Lisa Zimmermann of the Food Packaging Forum, compiled 600 entries documenting contamination from plastic food contact articles.
Alarmingly, 96% of these entries reported microplastics in the food or food simulant.
The team discovered that items like melamine bowls shed more plastic particles with repeated washing and heating. This means that even products marketed as reusable can degrade and contribute to contamination over time.
ULTRA-PROCESSED FOODS CONTAIN HIGHER MICROPLASTIC LEVELS
The researchers also found that ultra-processed foods have more microplastics compared to minimally processed options.
This happens because each additional processing step involves more contact with plastic equipment and packaging.
CALLS FOR URGENT ACTION AND MORE RESEARCH
Zimmermann and her colleagues stressed that much more research is needed to understand the health effects of this constant exposure.
They also recommend adopting a precautionary approach to limit human intake of microplastics whenever possible.
A PRECAUTIONARY APPROACH IS WISE
“Our study shows that under normal conditions, plastic food contact articles can release microplastics into food,” the researchers wrote.
Until science fully clarifies the risks, reducing the use of plastics in food packaging and preparation is a sensible choice. The team created a searchable online dashboard. It helps consumers, researchers, and policymakers better understand how different packaging contributes to contamination.
The study appears in npj Science of Food.