A recent study highlights that chewing gum contains synthetic polymers, effectively making it a source of microplastics in our saliva. Researchers, led by UCLA's Sanjay Mohanty, tested multiple gum brands for microplastic release when chewed. While microplastics permeate our environment, gum presents a more direct form of exposure. PhD student Lisa Lowe emphasized how surprising it is for many to learn that gum is largely composed of plastic. This research calls for greater public awareness regarding what we consume and its potential health implications.
People don't really know that gum is plastic; it's just not something that we think about because it's like food, so we wouldn't expect it.
Here, the food is the plastic, which makes gum a unique case for microplastic exposure in our daily lives.
The study reveals that while gum seems like a harmless treat, it can actually contribute significant plastic exposure directly into our bodies.
There are alarming levels of microplastics in the products we consume and gum is an overlooked source that deserves attention.
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