BINGHAMTON, NEW YORK — In case you needed more proof that fresh is best, a new study has found that nanoparticles in your food packaging could be doing your gut harm.<br /><br />According to the Binghamton University study, the inside of canned goods are typically lined with zinc oxide nanoparticles, which have antimicrobial properties.<br /><br />When looking at how much nanoparticles were transferred to food, researchers found 100 times the recommended daily allowance of zinc oxide.<br /><br />While in the small intestine, the nanoparticles caused the remodelling or loss of microvilli, resulting less nutrients being absorbed into the cells.<br /><br />High doses of zinc oxide also triggered pro-inflammatory signaling. This can increase intestinal permeability and allow harmful compounds to pass into the bloodstream.<br /><br />Since only a cell model was used to demonstrate the effects, it's difficult to determine how long-term ingestion will impact human health. For now, the researchers are looking at the nanoparticles' effect on animals.
