Scientists found 94% of microplastics released within eight minutes of chewing gum
A new study reveals that chewing a single piece of gum can release hundreds to thousands of microplastics in saliva.
Researchers tested 10 popular gum brands, both synthetic and natural, and found that one gram of gum releases an average of 100 microplastics.
They collected saliva samples from participants who chewed gum for up to 20 minutes.
Results showed that 94% of microplastics were released within the first eight minutes.
The study will be presented at the American Chemical Society’s biannual meeting, highlighting gum as a direct source of microplastic ingestion.
Surprisingly, natural gums contained microplastics, too, possibly due to contamination during production.
Experts warn that humans already consume an estimated 250,000 plastic particles yearly through food, water and air.
While the health impact of microplastics remains uncertain, researchers stress the need for more studies on long-term effects.