What are Microplastics?
Microplastics are defined as plastic particles smaller than 5 millimeters (mm) in size, originating from larger pieces of plastic that break down over time through various processes. Due to their small size, the plastics are often difficult for the human eye to detect. However, the impact they leave does not go unnoticed. The environmental impact of microplastics is a growing concern, and their effects on our health are also a rising concern.
Why It Matters
Particles from synthetic polymers, also known as plastic, are breaking down from clothing, tires, and plastic containers, including water bottles and food containers. Microplastics have been identified in water, aquatic and land animals, and in humans. Microplastics have recently been found in drinking water, bottled water, seafood, spices, and milk. Consuming foods and drinks that contain microplastics means humans also consume small amounts of plastic, which can then move through the body. Exposure can also occur through inhalation of the air distributed by the wind. Because microplastics are present in many foods, water, and the air we breathe, exposure could occur over time. Research is ongoing, but scientists are studying the health impacts of long-term exposure. Understanding the impact helps individuals make small changes in daily habits, supporting overall health.
Effects on Health
Microplastics could enter human bodies through ingestion of food and drink or inhalation of air, then enter the bloodstream. Often, microplastics carry other chemicals, leading to direct exposure when inhaled or ingested. Researchers have found microplastics in breast milk, organs, and the placenta. Scientists are studying the long-term health effects; however, these findings raise concerns about how microplastics could impact bodily functions and systems.
Microplastics and Associated Chemicals
Researchers are investigating the risks of exposure to chemicals on the surface of microplastics over time, which may cause negative health impacts on the gastrointestinal system, reproductive system, or potentially lead to cancer. They may disrupt the digestive system when ingested, leading to various gastrointestinal symptoms, such as abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel movements. New studies also suggest that when inhaled, microplastics can cause respiratory symptoms, including coughing, shortness of breath, fatigue, and dizziness. Inhaling microplastics may occur by breathing in tiny airborne particles from rubber tires, synthetic clothing, industrial waste and emissions, and other sources. Regarding the reproductive system, microplastics have been found in the ovaries and placenta of pregnant women. Scientists are studying how chemicals and microplastics found in the placenta could affect the baby’s nutrients and immune function. Microplastics have been found in organs and breastmilk, which could directly reach infants. The disruption of hormone movement through the endocrine system is being studied, and the long-term health implications are being examined.
How to Decrease Microplastic Exposure
While it is not possible to eliminate microplastic exposure, small changes can reduce exposure and contact with microplastics.
Ways to reduce exposure to microplastics:
Limit contact between food and plastic, especially when food is hot or greasy
- Limit food in plastic or Styrofoam containers
- Avoid heating food in plastic containers
Use reusable or non-plastic alternatives when possible and practical
- Consider using wood or other non-plastic cutting board options
- Store food in glass, stainless steel, or ceramic containers
- Use reusable glass or stainless-steel water bottles and coffee mugs
- Consider stainless steel or cast-iron cookware and bakeware instead of non-stick
- Reduce exposure through drinking water
- Consider using a faucet-mounted or point-of-use water filtering device to reduce microplastics
- Choose products with less plastic packaging
- Purchase fresh or unpackaged foods when available
- Avoid cosmetic or personal care products containing microbeads
Conclusion
Although many questions remain about the long-term effects of microplastics on human health, reducing exposure to and use of microplastics could support overall health in the future. Inconsistent measurements make it difficult to establish safety standards to prevent microplastics and the chemicals they contain from entering our bodies through food, water, and air. New research on the long-term effects of microplastics on human health is needed to draw conclusions. However, researchers are discovering links between health issues and microplastics. In the meantime, small, practical changes can have a significant impact on your health while limiting your exposure to microplastics.
If you want to learn more, check out https://hgic.clemson.edu/microplastics-small-plastics-big-problem/
References:
- Cherian, A. G., Liu, Z., McKie, M. J., Almuhtaram, H., & Andrews, R. C. (2023). Microplastic removal from drinking water using point-of-use devices. Polymers, 15(6), 1331. https://doi.org/10.3390/polym15061331
- Huffman, E. (2026). Microplastics and women’s health: what we’re learning from new research. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. https://hsph.harvard.edu/mahalingaiah-lab/news/microplastics-and-womens-health-what-were-learning-from-new-research/
- Lee, Y., Cho, J., Sohn, J., & Kim, C. (2023). Health effects of microplastic exposures: Current issues and perspectives in South Korea. Yonsei Medical Journal, 64(5), 301-308. https://doi.org/10.3349/ymj.2023.0048
- Li, Y., Tao, L., Wang, Q., Wang, F., Li, G., & Song, M. (2023). Potential health impact of Microplastics: A review of environmental distribution of human exposure, and toxic effects. Environmental & Health, 1(4), 249-257. https://doi.org/10.1021/envhealth.3c00052
- Min, S. F. (2024). Using Styrofoam containers safely. Singapore Food Agency. https://www.sfa.gov.sg/food-safety-tips/food-risk-concerns/risk-at-a-glance/using-styrofoam-containers-safely
Authors:
- Alexis Windham, Rural Health and Nutrition Extension Agent, Lee and Sumter Counties Extension, Clemson University
- Stacy Kirby, Food Systems and Safety Agent, Greenwood County Extension, Clemson University
Reviewed By:
- Michelle Altman, Extension Associate, Rural Health and Nutrition
