Study Finds High Levels of Plastic Particles in Bottled Water
New research conducted by Columbia University and Rutgers University has revealed that there are significantly higher concentrations of plastic particles in bottled water than previously estimated. The study, which used a technology called stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) microscopy and machine learning, detected around 240,000 plastic fragments in a typical liter of bottled water, with 10% of these being microplastics and 90% being nanoplastics.
This finding is particularly alarming considering that microplastics have already been discovered in various parts of the human body, including the lungs, blood, and excrement. However, nanoplastics pose an even greater risk as they can be misidentified as natural components of cells once inside the body.
The study did not identify the brands of bottled water that were tested, but it did highlight that only 10% of the particles detected were identifiable, while the rest could be minerals, other types of plastics, or something else entirely. Despite these concerning results, the International Bottled Water Association has called for a full review of the study’s detection method by the scientific community, and they argue that there is currently no scientific consensus on the health impacts of nanoplastics.
One potential source of the plastic particles in bottled water could be the plastic used in water filters. This hypothesis is supported by ongoing research, which aims to shed light on the amount of plastic that humans consume and its effects on the body. Moreover, future studies will focus on investigating the presence of plastic particles not only in bottled water but also in tap water, air, food, and human tissues.
This new research underscores the urgent need for further examination of the issue and for companies to address the plastic pollution crisis. Consumers should be aware of the potential risks associated with plastic particles in their drinking water and consider options such as water filters that do not use plastic materials. As the scientific community continues to investigate the impact of plastic particles on human health, it is crucial that consumers have access to accurate information and viable solutions to minimize their exposure.
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