What are microplastics, and why are they harmful?

Microplastics are tiny plastic particles, ranging from 1 micrometre to 5 millimetres, that come from the breakdown of larger plastics or are intentionally added to products. They can enter the human body through food, water, and air, potentially causing inflammation, hormone disruption, and even contributing to chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease.

How do microplastics get into chewing gum?

Most modern chewing gums contain synthetic polymers, which are essentially plastics. When chewed, these polymers break down, releasing thousands of tiny plastic particles into the mouth.

What are the potential health risks of chewing gum with microplastics?

Microplastics have been linked to inflammation, hormone disruption, and serious health conditions such as heart disease, cancer, and dementia. However, more research is needed to understand the long-term effects of chewing gum-derived microplastics.

Should I stop chewing gum altogether?

While the study raises concerns, experts suggest being mindful of overall plastic exposure rather than eliminating gum entirely. Consumers can also opt for biodegradable, plastic-free gum alternatives to reduce their intake of microplastics.

A Sticky Situation : This Everyday Habit Could Be Adding Plastic To Your Diet!

By Riny John

Wednesday, March 26, 2025, 21:41

Chewing gum has been a favourite pastime for decades, whether for freshening breath, relieving stress, or simply as a habit. But what if that little piece of gum you're chewing is also releasing thousands of plastic particles into your body? Recent research suggests that chewing gum is a significant source of microplastics, adding to the growing concern about plastic exposure in our daily lives.

Photo Credit: Pexels

The Growing Problem Of Microplastics

Microplastics are tiny plastic fragments measuring between 1 micrometre and 5 millimetres. They come from the breakdown of larger plastic items and are found in everyday products, including water bottles, clothing, and even personal care products. These particles can enter the human body through food, drink, and the air we breathe, raising concerns about their potential health risks.

Previous studies have linked microplastic exposure to serious health conditions, including cancer, heart disease, and dementia. These plastics can cause inflammation, cellular damage, and hormone disruption, which may contribute to chronic illnesses. Now, scientists are turning their attention to an often-overlooked source: chewing gum.

The Research : Measuring Microplastics In Gum

A study led by Prof. Sanjay Mohanty, an engineering professor at UCLA, has revealed that chewing a single piece of gum can release up to 3,000 microplastic particles. The research was presented at the American Chemical Society conference in San Diego and aimed to highlight another potential source of plastic exposure in daily life.

The team tested five brands each of synthetic and natural gum, measuring the microplastics released during chewing. Surprisingly, both types of gum released similar amounts of microplastics, contradicting the initial belief that synthetic gums (made from petroleum-based polymers) would release more. This finding suggests that microplastic contamination in gum is more complex than previously thought.

To ensure accuracy, a single individual chewed seven pieces of gum from each brand, and saliva samples were collected at intervals to measure the microplastic content. On average, most gum types released 100 microplastics per gram, with some reaching up to 600 microplastics per gram. Since a typical piece of gum weighs between 2 and 6 grams, this means thousands of plastic particles could be ingested in just one chew.

A Widespread Issue : How Does This Compare To Other Sources?

Chewing gum is not the only culprit when it comes to microplastic exposure. Bottled water, seafood, and even the air we breathe all contribute to our daily intake. Dr. Brandon Luu, an internal medicine resident at the University of Toronto, pointed out that bottled water is a significant source of microplastics, suggesting that switching to tap water could drastically reduce exposure.

Despite these concerns, the National Confectioners Association insists that chewing gum is safe to consume, noting that it has been enjoyed for over a century using FDA-approved ingredients. However, this new research raises important questions about long-term exposure and its potential health effects.

What's Next? The Need For Further Research

The study calls for more research into whether chewing gum releases even smaller plastic particles, known as nanoplastics, which could pose an even greater risk. Prof. Mohanty also emphasised the importance of responsible gum disposal, as improperly discarded gum contributes to environmental plastic pollution.

Think Before You Chew

While it may be alarming to think of your favourite gum as a source of microplastics, this research highlights a broader issue: the pervasiveness of plastic in our daily lives. Whether it's in the food we eat, the water we drink, or the air we breathe, microplastics are everywhere. While more research is needed to understand the full impact on human health, this study reminds us to be more mindful of our consumption habits-and maybe even reconsider how often we reach for that pack of gum.

Photo Credit: Pexels

So, next time you unwrap a piece of gum, you might just think twice before chewing!

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.