A recent pilot study by UCLA researchers reveals that chewing gum, whether synthetic or natural, releases thousands of microplastic particles into saliva. This finding highlights an often-overlooked source of microplastic exposure, prompting questions about potential health implications and responsible disposal practices, though researchers emphasize the need for further study before drawing definitive conclusions.
Chewing Gum: A Hidden Source of Microplastics
Chewing gum, a seemingly innocuous everyday item, has been identified as a significant contributor to microplastic exposure. A pilot study conducted by UCLA researchers, soon to be presented at the American Chemical Society’s Spring Meeting, found that each piece of gum can release hundreds to thousands of microplastic particles into the chewer’s saliva. This discovery adds to the growing concern about widespread microplastic pollution and its potential impact on human health.
The Study’s Surprising Findings
- Both Synthetic and Natural Gums Release Microplastics: Contrary to initial hypotheses, the study found that both synthetic and natural gum brands released similar amounts of microplastics. This suggests that the manufacturing process or the inherent nature of gum’s base, regardless of its origin, contributes to particle shedding.
- Significant Particle Release: On average, one gram of gum released approximately 100 microplastic particles, with some instances reaching up to 600 particles per gram. Considering a typical gum piece weighs between two and six grams, a single large piece could introduce up to 3,000 microplastic particles into the mouth.
- Rapid Release: The majority of microplastic particles were released within the first two minutes of chewing, with 94% of detectable particles shed by the eight-minute mark. This indicates that the abrasive action of chewing quickly dislodges these tiny plastic bits.
- Annual Ingestion Estimates: Researchers estimated that a person chewing 160 to 180 small pieces of gum annually could ingest around 30,000 microplastic particles.
Health Implications and Future Research
While the study quantifies the release of microplastics from gum, the long-term health effects of ingesting these particles remain largely unknown. Scientists emphasize that more research, including human trials, is needed to understand the full scope of potential health impacts. Microplastics have been found in various human tissues, including the brain, and some studies suggest links to inflammation, DNA damage, and other health concerns. However, the amount of microplastics from gum is considered small compared to other sources like bottled water.
Reducing Exposure and Responsible Disposal
For those concerned about microplastic intake, researchers offer a simple suggestion: chew a single piece of gum for a longer duration rather than frequently replacing it with new pieces. Since most particles are released early in the chewing process, extending the chew time of one piece could reduce overall exposure. Additionally, the study highlights the environmental impact of improperly discarded gum, urging consumers to dispose of it responsibly in trash receptacles, as it contributes to plastic pollution.
Sources
- Chewing Gum Is Flooding Your Mouth With Microplastics, Futurism.
- Chewing Gum Exposes You to Thousands of Microplastics, Study Reveals, وطن. يغرد خارج السرب.
- Your chewing gum may be full of microplastics, Earth.com.
- Gum May Release Thousands of Microplastics in Your Mouth, Health.com.
- Product used by millions may contain potentially dangerous particles, Daily Express.