New research shows that tiny plastic particles get into your saliva when you chew gum. This finding comes from a study presented at an American Chemical Society meeting that's still being reviewed by other scientists. The study found that chewing gum releases over 600 microplastic particles per gram, with most gum sticks weighing between 2 and 6 grams.
Researchers led by UCLA graduate student Lisa Lowe and Professor Sanjay Mohanty tested 10 popular gum brands. They collected saliva samples at different times while chewing. The team expected synthetic gums to release microplastics because they're made with plastic polymers. What surprised them was finding similar levels in "natural" gums made from plant resins, suggesting these products get contaminated during manufacturing.
The FDA's lack of limits for microplastics in food is a cause for concern. While they've stated that current evidence doesn't show health risks from the levels found in foods, some new research suggests otherwise. A March 2024 study found that nearly 60% of patients who had artery plaque removed had microplastics present, and these patients were 2.1 times more likely to have a stroke, heart attack, or die within the next 34 months.
Despite the research findings, the gum industry maintains that its products are safe. The National Confectioners Association asserts that gum remains safe as it has been for over a century and that companies only use FDA-approved ingredients.
The study identified four main types of gum microplastics: polyolefins, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyacrylamides, and polystyrenes. PET, commonly used in plastic bottles, is the most common plastic polymer in human brain tissue. Most microplastics (over 90%) are released in the first eight minutes of chewing.
The researchers only measured particles larger than 20 microns, meaning the actual count could be ten times higher. They plan to study smaller particles next. They also noted that properly disposing of gum is essential since it likely continues to release microplastics into the environment over time.
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