Chewing Gum Releases 250,000 Microplastics In One Hour - Study Says

The lead researcher, Dr. Cuong Cao, states this discovery highlights a previously unnoticed source of microplastic exposure that needs attention.

A study from Queen’s University Belfast warns against a popular treat: chewing gum. The research reveals that just one piece can release approximately 250,000 microplastics into your saliva within an hour, raising alarms about the unknown long-term health impacts. The lead researcher, Dr. Cuong Cao, states this discovery highlights a previously unnoticed source of microplastic exposure that needs attention.

Chewing gum is primarily made from polymers, which can be natural or synthetic materials akin to plastics. While companies such as Wrigley tout their products’ consistent texture and flavour longevity, chemists like David Jones reveal the potentially harmful components within; such as styrene-butadiene—used in tires—and polyethylene, found in shopping bags.

The researchers investigated how microplastics migrate from gum to the human body by conducting an experiment with a male volunteer. After providing a saliva sample, he chewed gum for an hour, during which it was found that 251,244 microplastic pieces entered his saliva, primarily within the initial 20 minutes. This alarming revelation leaves uncertain what effects these particles may have on our health.

Experts like Professor Michael Richardson caution about the unknown impacts of ingesting large microplastic particles. They draw connections between plastics and increasing cancer risks, with emerging studies suggesting these tiny particles could accelerate cancer cell growth. Discussions continue among scientists debating the severity of such risks, with hopes of more conclusive findings in the future.

A publication from the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health shares vast knowledge gaps regarding the effects of microplastics on human health. It states that current exposures primarily come from contaminated food and water, but the long-term risks remain poorly understood. Also, Rachel Adams from Cardiff Metropolitan University outlines possible concerns like inflammation, immune responses, and microplastics acting as carriers for toxins, potentially leading to serious health issues.