Numerous Micro and Nanoplastics in Bottled Water, According to a Study

Several well-known brands of bottled water have been found to have incredibly high quantities of micro and nanoplastic particles, according to a recent study that used sophisticated microscopy techniques.

Over 200,000 plastic particles were identified in each liter on average, with 90% of them falling into the nanoscale category, which is smaller than 1 micrometer. When compared to larger particles, these present greater health concerns.

The tiny synthetic polymer fragments most likely come from water treatment procedures, purification filters, and components used in plastic bottles. However, there are serious concerns about the safety of packaged drinking water due to their vast number and potential for spread.

Novel Approaches to Measurement

Due to the difficulties in recognizing such minuscule particles smaller than a single bacteria using conventional analytical methods, previous studies significantly overestimated the prevalence of nanoplastics.

In order to tackle these obstacles, the scientists utilized a sophisticated method known as stimulated Raman scattering microscopy, which was recently developed by study coauthor Dr. Wei Min from Columbia University.

The scientists can now systematically scan bottled water samples thanks to this remarkable precision and chemical specificity in detecting microplastics based on their unique molecular structure.

Nanoparticles of plastic in billions

An astounding average of over 110,000 plastic nanoparticles per liter was confirmed by analysis of three leading brands; this is around three to ten times more than previous maximum estimates.

Roughly 10% of them were effectively matched to seven popular consumer plastic kinds, such as nylon and PET. However, the origin of the remaining 90% of the detected particles was unknown.

The average yearly use of 73 liters of bottled water for residential use contains around 8 billion nanoplastic particles, and the hazards of consuming such quantities are yet not fully understood.

Possible Routes of Exposure

While more research is required, preliminary findings indicate that, in contrast to bigger microparticles restricted to the gut, nanoplastics can quickly reach the human bloodstream after ingestion.

The astounding volumes currently expressed in terms of bottled water indicate a possible exposure pathway. Toxicological risks are presented by the increased surface area of nanoplastics, which also permits chemical leaching and toxin absorption.

The HungryMicros study identifies potential sources of contamination during purification and packing, including plastic filtration membranes, bottle degradation, resin ion exchange systems, and coagulation aids.

Looking for Safer Substitutes

More alarmingly, it was shown that the amount of these purification-derived particles exceeded even the amount of plasticizer chemicals leached under heat and pressure from common bottle materials, such as PET.

Customers who are concerned about the frequency of nanoplastics in bottled water as this study reveals may logically think about safer options while waiting for more firm health recommendations. Filtered tap water at the point of use is a reasonably priced way to get essential mineral nutrients without using plastic.

In any case, the startling new data emphasize how urgent it is to comprehend the biological effects and dispersion of nanoplastics, particularly in commonly consumed goods.