HOW DO MICROPLASTICS ENTER THE BODY?

Microplastics can enter the human body primarily through ingestion, inhalation, and, to a lesser extent, skin contact. Here's how:

1. Ingestion

• Food Contamination: Microplastics can contaminate a wide range of foods:
• Seafood: Fish and shellfish can ingest microplastics, which then accumulate in their tissues and are consumed by humans.
• Packaged Foods: Foods wrapped or stored in plastic can pick up microplastic particles from the packaging.
• Salt and Sugar: Studies have found microplastics in table salt, particularly sea salt, and other processed ingredients.
• Beverages: Bottled water, tea bags made of synthetic fibers, and some beers have been shown to contain microplastics.
• Cooking and Utensils: Heating food in plastic containers can cause microplastic particles to leach into the food.

2. Inhalation

• Airborne Particles: Microplastics can be suspended in the air as dust or fibers from synthetic clothing, furniture, or other materials.
• Indoor Environments: Activities like vacuuming, dusting, or handling synthetic textiles can release microplastics into the air.
• Outdoor Exposure: Particles from degraded plastics in the environment can be carried by wind and inhaled.

3. Skin Contact (Limited Pathway)

• Cosmetics and Skincare: Products containing microbeads can leave residues on the skin that may be absorbed through cuts or abrasions.
• Environmental Contact: Physical contact with contaminated water (e.g., during swimming or bathing) might expose the skin to microplastics, though absorption through intact skin is less likely.

4. Cross-Contamination

• Handling Plastic: Touching plastics and then eating or touching the face can transfer microplastics into the body.
• Contaminated Utensils and Tools: Repeated use of worn plastic tools or utensils can contribute to ingestion.

Once inside the body, microplastics may interact with tissues, potentially leading to health effects depending on their size, shape, and chemical composition.