Microplastics – a term that has appeared in various news headlines and scientific reports in recent years. It refers to tiny pieces of plastic less than 5 mm in length, which can come from the decomposition of various plastic products, such as plastic bags, takeaway plastic boxes, plastic bottles, packaging materials, etc.
It is estimated that an average person consumes about 5 grams of microplastic particles per week, which is equivalent to "eating a bank card" per week [1]. Microplastics are everywhere in the bottled water we drink, the clothes we wear, and even the air we breathe. Against this troubling backdrop, Kepjun can't help but ask, how harmful are these tiny plastic particles to our health?
01
Cleaning artifact: Magic Wipe releases microplastics
Recently, a research team from Nanjing University and Southeast University published an important research paper in the journal Environmental Science and Technology, revealing the release of microplastics from household cleaning products [2]. Their research was on a popular cleaning product, the Magic Eraser, which is made from a polymer of melamine and formaldehyde and is known for its powerful cleaning power. However, during use, the Magic Rub needs to rub against the surface of the object, and in the process, the microplastics will fall off.
Studies have shown that the Magic Wiper releases about 6.5 million microplastic fibers per gram of wear [2]. According to Amazon's sales data, 7.5 tons of Velcro products are sold globally every month, which may release as many as 1.55 trillion microplastic particles per month. However, this is only calculated from the data of a retail platform, and the actual release may be much higher than that.
Image source: Photo.com
02
The potential threat of microplastics to the human body
What are the effects of microplastics when they enter the human body?
Through a variety of experimental models and technical means, researchers have gradually uncovered its potential harms. On April 10, 2024, a research team from United States New Mexico University published a paper in the journal Environmental Health Outlook that explored the distribution of microplastic particles in mice [3]. Studies have found that ingested microplastics not only stay in the gut, but can also cross the intestinal barrier and enter other tissues such as the liver, kidneys, and even the brain. More importantly, these microplastics also alter metabolic pathways in the colon, liver, and brain, suggesting that they can profoundly affect human health.
Further research suggests that microplastics may be associated with cardiovascular disease. On March 7, 2024, a study from the University of Campania in Italy demonstrated for the first time the link between microplastics and nanoplastics and cardiovascular events. In this study, the researchers found that people with microplastics in their blood had a 4.53-fold increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and all-cause death in the next 34 months [4].
Image source: Photo.com
03
Health products for everyday life
In today's ubiquitous microplastics, you can choose healthier alternatives to reduce your exposure and intake of microplastics.
Choose clothing and household items made of natural materials
Synthetic fibers, such as polyester, nylon, acrylic, etc., are one of the important sources of microplastics. These materials release large amounts of microplastic fibers during washing or rubbing. To reduce exposure to microplastics, choose clothing and household items made from natural materials, such as cotton, linen, silk, wool, etc. Not only are these natural fibers more environmentally friendly, they are also more comfortable to wear and use.
Especially for household items, such as bed sheets, pillowcases, and rugs, it is advisable to choose products made with natural fibers. Natural materials are not only not easy to release microplastics during use, but also have good air permeability and moisture absorption, which is more beneficial to human health.
Use reusable glass or stainless steel containers
Plastic containers are another major source of microplastics, especially those that may experience friction or high temperatures during use. It is recommended to use glass, stainless steel or ceramic containers instead of disposable plastic bottles, plastic lunch boxes, plastic water bottles, etc. Not only are these materials durable, but they also keep food and water pure, reducing potential exposure to microplastics.
In daily use, choose non-toxic and environmentally friendly alternatives, and try to avoid plastic products that contain polystyrene or other harmful chemicals. In addition, be careful not to put plastic products in the microwave oven to avoid high temperature causing the plastic to decompose and produce more microplastics.
Avoid personal care products that contain microplastics
Many personal care products, such as facial cleansers, toothpastes, scrubs, etc., may contain microplastics in the form of microbeads. These beads are often used as exfoliating or cleansing ingredients, but after use, they are flushed directly down the drain, enter the water environment, and have the potential to be re-ingested.
Choose a product that is free of microplastics, which can be identified by looking at the product ingredient list and avoid products that contain ingredients such as "polyethylene (PE)", "polypropylene (PP)" or "nylon". In addition, more and more brands are starting to launch natural products that do not contain microplastics, such as bamboo charcoal cleansing soaps, all-natural scrubs, etc., which can be used as a more environmentally friendly and healthy alternative.
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Avoid overuse of the "cleaning artifact"
Many household cleaning products, such as the Magic Eraser, release large amounts of microplastics during use. To reduce the release of microplastics, it is advisable to avoid overuse of these "cleaning artifacts" in favor of more environmentally friendly alternatives. For example, using cleaning tools made of natural materials such as cotton cloth, bamboo fibre or coconut shell brushes can achieve cleaning results without releasing microplastics.
Also, consider using a homemade cleaning solution, such as a natural cleaner made with a mixture of white vinegar and baking soda. These alternatives are not only effective in cleaning the home, but also reduce exposure to chemicals and microplastics.
Cookware and cutlery using natural materials in the kitchen
Plastic kitchenware, such as plastic spoons, spatulas, and cutting boards, are constantly worn out and release microplastics during use. It is advisable to use wood, stainless steel or silicone instead of plastic utensils. Especially natural bamboo and wood products, they are not only environmentally friendly, but also have good durability and are not easy to release harmful substances.
Also, avoid cookware with non-stick coatings, as nonstick coatings can break down at high temperatures, releasing harmful microplastic particles. Pots and pans with cast iron, ceramic, or stainless steel are preferred, as these materials are more durable and safer.
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