Recently, several scientific studies have shed light on the magnitude of the problem, both in the marine environment and in the human body. The accumulating evidence shows that microplastics are already present in every corner of the planet , including our lungs, blood, and food. Below, we review the most significant findings.
Microplastics in marine life and on our dinner table
The sea is one of the world's largest sinks for plastics. A study by the Spanish Institute of Oceanography (IEO-CSIC) has confirmed that blue crabs in the Mar Menor lagoon contain microplastics in their tissues, while researchers from the University of Las Palmas have found these particles in the stomachs of Canary Island sea sharks. These predators and crustaceans, many of them commercially important species, thus become a direct entry point for microplastics into the food chain. The analyses carried out in both studies agree that oceanic microplastic pollution reaches marine organisms on a widespread basis.
In addition to animals, marine habitats suffer from the accumulation of plastics. Currents and waves break this waste into increasingly smaller particles, which eventually become incorporated into plankton and sediments. Shellfish, such as mussels, clams, and oysters, filter these particles and accumulate them in their tissues, posing a direct threat to their safety for human consumption.
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Microplastics in the human body and in what we eat
Human exposure to microplastics is unavoidable. A study presented at the European Respiratory Society Congress, conducted with Greek patients, detected polypropylene and polyethylene particles in lung tissue and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Other research has located microplastics in blood, brain tissue, and human reproductive fluids . These findings demonstrate that the particles are not only inhaled but can also translocate to various organs. Scientists warn that the long-term effects are still uncertain, but point to potential inflammatory and hormonal disruption risks.
Everyday packaging and containers are also a significant source. A comparative study of paper cups with plastic linings revealed that these containers, including those marketed as biodegradable, release microplastics when they come into contact with hot beverages . Another Canadian study has shown that commercial tea bags release millions of particles during brewing. Bottled water , salt, instant rice, and other processed foods also contain microplastics, making our diet a constant source of exposure.
The food industry and consumers have room to act. Experts recommend using filtered water instead of bottled water, opting for loose-leaf teas, and prioritizing fresh foods over highly processed ones. Improving wastewater treatment systems is another urgent measure to prevent synthetic fibers from clothing from reaching the ocean.
Reducing exposure: small actions
Faced with this situation, science is seeking solutions and also recommending changes in habits. For example, the use of eco-friendly scouring pads is presented as an alternative to avoid the release of microplastics in the kitchen. A study published in Environmental Advances quantified that conventional scouring pads can release between 0,68 and 4,21 grams of microplastics per person per year, while models made with plant fibers, such as esparto grass, loofah, or cellulose, contain much less plastic or even none at all. Adopting these natural utensils can significantly reduce the amount of particles that go down the drain.
Other measures recommended by experts include using filtered water instead of bottled water, avoiding tea bags, reducing the consumption of single-use plastics, and improving wastewater treatment, since using a washing machine contributes to pollution by releasing fibers that end up in the sea.
Microplastic pollution is a global problem that is already directly impacting our oceans, our food supply, and our health. Evidence is mounting and indicates that the only way to curb this threat is to reduce plastic production and improve waste management. Every small decision counts, from choosing a scouring pad made of esparto grass to advocating for better wastewater treatment systems. The future of the planet, and our own, may depend on it.
