Microplastics
Microplastics can be potentially toxic and lead, for example, to cell damage, inflammatory and immune reactions and metabolic changes.
Sources of exposure
The term refers to particles that are made of non-degradable plastic, are smaller than five millimetres and do not dissolve in water.
Microplastics have already been detected in seawater, wastewater, freshwater, food, air and drinking water. Common foods such as fish and salt and beverages such as water and beer routinely test positive for microparticles. Large amounts are present in water and shellfish in particular. Microplastics enter freshwater in a variety of ways: primarily through surface runoff and wastewater, but also through combined sewer overflows, industrial effluents, degraded plastic waste and atmospheric deposition.
Plastics are widely used in society, so the public comes into contact with them frequently. Young children are even more exposed to these risks. This is because a large number of plastic toys, cups and cutlery for children contain these toxic particles. The everyday use of household items (e.g. plastic cutlery, toothbrushes, chopping boards, cups, etc.) can also lead to increased contact with microplastics.
Possible health effects
Microplastics can have these health effects:
- Inflammation of the stomach lining
- Microplastics and chemicals can enter human fat cells, tissues and organs
- Influence on hormone levels
- Microplastics can also act as carriers for pathogens such as bacteria, viruses and parasites, which are often found in oceanic ecosystems.
- Symptoms of food poisoning
In addition, plastic particles contain numerous chemicals that are simply harmful. Microplastics must therefore always be seen as a health hazard.
When people consume seafood, their bodies can absorb microplastics and the toxins they contain. This microplastic and the chemicals can enter and damage human fat cells, tissues and organs.
If microplastics are ingested through drinking water, this can lead to inflammation of the stomach lining and affect hormone levels.
Microplastics can also act as carriers for pathogens such as bacteria, viruses and parasites, which are often found in marine ecosystems. This can cause food poisoning.
In addition, studies have shown that bottled water is significantly contaminated with microplastics, so it would be advisable for consumers not to buy it in bottles.
Sources:
https://www.aquatechwatersystems.com/blog/the-truth-behind-ro-water-filters-and-microplastics/
https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789241516198