High Levels of Nanoplastics Found in Commercial Bottled Water, Raises Health Concerns

 

High Levels of Nanoplastics Found in Commercial Bottled Water, Raises Health Concerns

Seoul, South Korea - A recent study conducted by researchers from Columbia University and Rutgers University in the United States has unveiled alarming levels of nanoplastics in commercially available bottled water. Published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), the study utilized a novel method of molecular resonance observation and focused on three Walmart-sold bottled water brands, analyzing five samples from each.

Key Findings of the Study:

1. Nanoplastics Concentration: The research revealed an average of approximately 240,000 nanoplastic particles per liter of bottled water, with variations ranging from 110,000 to 400,000 particles in different samples. Notably, more than 90 percent of these particles were identified as nanoplastics.

2. Origin of Nanoplastics: The study suggests that the majority of nanoplastics likely originate from the bottles themselves and reverse osmosis filters employed to eliminate other contaminants. However, the specific brands were not disclosed.

3. Size Comparison: Nanoplastics, with sizes typically less than 1 micrometer (1 millionth of a meter), are significantly smaller than microplastics (less than 5 micrometers). For perspective, a human hair measures about 83 micrometers in thickness.

4. Potential Health Implications: The study raises concerns about the potential health impact of nanoplastics, as they are theoretically small enough to penetrate bodily systems such as blood, liver, and brain. Experts, however, remain divided on the exact risks and harmfulness of nanoplastics.

5. Expert Perspectives: Study co-author Phoebe Stapleton, a toxicologist at Rutgers University, emphasizes the uncertainty surrounding the dangers of nanoplastics. While acknowledging their ability to enter mammalian tissue, researchers are still investigating their interactions with cells.

6. World Health Organization's Stance: In 2019, the World Health Organization (WHO) stated that there was no reliable evidence of harm from microplastics, and the risk of harm to humans from microplastics in drinking water was considered low. However, the emerging focus on nanoplastics introduces new dimensions to the discussion.

Public Health Implications and Expert Opinions:

Despite the potential health concerns raised by the study, there is currently a lack of consensus among experts regarding the specific risks associated with nanoplastic consumption. While the World Health Organization has expressed a cautious stance, the study underlines the need for further research to comprehensively understand the implications of nanoplastic exposure.

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