Plastic does not only pollute the environment... <br />for the first time, a Dutch study has succeeded in demonstrating the presence of microplastics (particles smaller than 5 mm) in human blood.<br />The researchers collected blood samples from 22 anonymous donors, all healthy adults.<br />Result: 17 of them (more than 77% of the participants!) had microplastics. <br />According to the authors of the study, however, the amount is still quite low: about 1.6 micrograms per milliliter of blood. <br />Among these particles plastic particles, we find in :<br />- half of the cases: polyethylene terephthalate, one of the most used plastics in the world for bottles and polyester fibres.<br />- 1/3 of the cases: polystyrene, which is found in food packaging.<br />- 1/4 of the cases: polyethylene found in the food industry and cosmetics.<br />These particles would enter the body by inhalation or ingestion (through air, water, food, hygiene or cosmetic products).<br />Further studies are needed to determine the long-term consequences for humans.<br />These results are the first of their kind and further research is needed to determine the extent of the pollution of the human body and the damage that could result. .<br />"With this method, we can determine whether exposure to microplastics is a threat to public health." Marja Lamoree, author of the study
