Microplastics in the human body

Every day, we inhale and ingest a colossal quantity of microplastics, which are omnipresent in our environment. They travel right up to our respiratory system.

Microplastics are found not only in fish, but also in salt, beer, fresh fruit and vegetables, and drinking water. Airborne particles can circle the globe and land on all types of surface. Researchers have identified several types of microplastic in the human body. There are twelve types, including polyethylene found in packaging, PET found in bottles, and nylon found in clothing or paint.

Levels are higher in men than in women. In a study published in the American Chemical Society, scientists demonstrated the presence of micro and nano plastics in organs such as the liver, kidneys and lungs. Bisphenol A, which is classified as an endocrine disruptor with adverse effects on reproduction, was also found in several human samples.

Due to their small size, the analysis of these plastic microparticles is very complex. Although they could be harmful to health, further studies are required to address concerns about their degree of toxicity in the human body.