Study: Microplastics in Food Linked to Health Risks

​ Updated June 1, 2025
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Microscopic plastic particles found‍ in common food⁢ and⁢ beverages may negatively affect glucose metabolism and harm organs, particularly the liver, according to a new animal study. The ​research highlights‌ potential health risks associated​ with the consumption of microplastics and ⁣underscores the need for further inquiry.

As plastics degrade,they form micro- and nanoparticles that​ can enter the food ‌chain,contaminating seafood and‌ other⁤ edibles. Estimates suggest ⁤individuals ingest tens⁢ of thousands of these particles annually⁤ through food and drink.

Amy Parkhurst, a doctoral⁤ candidate at ‍the University of California, Davis, presented the⁢ findings at NUTRITION 2025. She stated the study confirms and expands on recent reports regarding the ‍effects of nanoplastics​ in animal models, specifically noting the contribution⁣ of polystyrene nanoplastics to glucose intolerance and signs of liver injury.

The study ​involved feeding mice a standard​ diet supplemented with polystyrene nanoparticles, a common plastic found in ⁢food packaging. Researchers administered a daily dose of 60 mg per kilogram of ⁣body weight,⁤ mirroring human exposure levels observed in previous studies.

Parkhurst noted that while they‌ couldn’t control all plastic exposure, the study‌ design allowed them to ​observe dose-correlated changes, with the nanoplastics-dosed group ​experiencing higher exposure.

The mice that consumed‌ nanoplastics exhibited systemic glucose intolerance and elevated alanine aminotransferase levels, indicative⁣ of liver damage, ‍compared to a⁣ control group. Researchers also noted ⁢increased gut permeability⁣ and elevated endotoxin levels, further contributing to liver dysfunction.

“Our findings warrant further studies to help inform policy around micro ⁢and nanoplastics,” Parkhurst said, emphasizing the importance of robust scientific ⁣evidence in shaping monitoring efforts and guiding regulations.

The research team plans to continue investigating the impact of nanoplastics on ‍other tissues and to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms involved. They ​are also collaborating with ‌Elizabeth Neumann to‍ monitor nanoplastic bioaccumulation and evaluate tissue-specific metabolic changes using advanced imaging techniques.

What’s next

Future research will focus on‍ understanding the long-term effects of microplastic exposure on various organs‍ and developing strategies⁤ to mitigate potential health ⁢risks ⁢associated with their consumption.