Episode 83. Microplastics in Our Food and Body: Cutting Boards, Microwaves, More
Sep 19, 2023
auto_awesome
Dr. Roger Seheult discusses the prevalence of microplastics in our food and body, including the release of microplastics from plastic containers during microwaving. They explore the presence of microplastics in containers, the effects of plastic exposure on kidney cells, the presence of microplastics in human food from cutting boards, and the detection of microplastics in human heart and surrounding tissues. They also discuss the issue of harmful chemicals in consumer products and initiatives to eliminate toxic substances from the market.
Microwaving certain plastics can release millions of microplastic and nanoplastic particles, highlighting potential health risks.
Consumption of microplastics in humans through eating, drinking, and breathing is estimated to be in the range of 39 to 52,000 particles, indicating widespread exposure to microplastics.
Deep dives
Plastics in Microwaved Products Release Microplastics and Nanoplastics
A recent study examined the release of microplastics and nanoplastics from plastic containers and reusable food pouches when microwaved. It was found that within three minutes of microwave heating, one square centimeter of plastic area could release as many as 4.22 million microplastic particles and 2.11 billion nanoplastic particles. The study also revealed that different types of containers and varied temperatures had an impact on the amount and size of particles released. These findings highlight the potential health risks associated with microwaving certain plastics.
Microplastic Consumption in Humans
A comprehensive study evaluated the estimated consumption of microplastics in humans through eating, drinking, and breathing. The research, based on data from 26 studies, revealed that individuals could consume anywhere from 39 to 52,000 microplastic particles, depending on age and sex. When considering inhalation and proper water consumption, the estimate increased to 74,000 to 121,000 particles annually. Drinking bottled water resulted in a significantly higher intake of microplastics compared to tap water. The study concluded that these estimates may be underestimated, indicating widespread exposure to microplastics through various sources.
Microplastic Contamination from Cutting Boards
An overlooked source of microplastic contamination in human food was discovered through a study on cutting boards. The research found that polypropylene cutting boards released more microplastics than polyethylene. Chopping vegetables on the cutting boards increased the incidence of microplastic release, possibly due to chemicals in the vegetables. The study estimated that individuals could be exposed to millions of polyethylene microplastics annually from cutting boards. Although no immediate toxicity was observed in a cell study, further investigation and caution are warranted regarding the potential long-term effects of microplastic exposure.
Roger Seheult, MD of MedCram explores the prevalence and implications of microplastics in our food and body. See all Dr. Seheult's videos at: https://www.medcram.com/
He is Board Certified in Internal Medicine, Pulmonary Disease, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine and an Associate Professor at the University of California, Riverside School of Medicine.
MEDCRAM WORKS WITH MEDICAL PROGRAMS AND HOSPITALS:
MedCram offers group discounts for students and medical programs, hospitals, and other institutions. Contact us at customers@medcram.com if you are interested.