Microplastics have been found in many unexpected spots and it might be hard to believe the many bizarre findings. Many studies have come to surface this decade revealing the grim side of the plastic menace.
The study was carried out at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam in the Netherlands by Prof Dick Vethaak, an ecotoxicologist and his team. They acquired blood samples from 22 non-fasting adults who volunteered for study. The blood samples were tested in order to detect polymers including PMMA, PP, PS, PE and PET.
PET particles were found in almost 50% of the blood samples. PET is the type of plastic used for bottling drinking water and soft drinks. Polystyrene (PS) plastic that is used for food delivery packaging was found in 36% of all donors.
The effects of micro or nano plastics present in the bloodstream needs more study. The research does not negate the possibility of the microplastics from entering the organs. Issues around bioaccumulation need more studies but already available findings don’t rule it out.
The plastic would only reach the bloodstream by ingestion or inhalation. The entry via skin won’t be possible unless a wound or damage exists. As per report airborne particles between 1 nm and 20μm are considered respirable.
Extremely small particles will settle in the lungs but larger particles will be coughed out. As the applications of microplastic are found in a wide range of products from lip gloss to toothpastes, research on biological effects of microplastics remains essential..
Past Findings Reveal The Presence Of Microplastics – Honey and Honeybees – Beer – Fish and seafood – Table Salt – Bottled Water – Human waste – Henderson Island – The Mariana Trench – Rain – Human Placenta