OMG! Is Your Chewing Gum Secretly Poisoning You With Microplastics?!

2025-03-26 00:03:22.112

A pilot study presented at the American Chemical Society meeting reveals that chewing gum, both synthetic and natural varieties, releases significant amounts of microplastics into saliva. Researchers found that chewing one piece of gum can release hundreds, even thousands, of microplastics, with most released within the first eight minutes. The study analyzed ten popular US gum brands, using various methods to isolate and identify the microplastics. While the long-term health effects of microplastic ingestion are unknown, the findings raise concerns about potential exposure. The study highlights the lack of transparency in gum ingredient labeling, making it difficult to determine the source of microplastics. Experts emphasize the need for further research to understand the health implications of microplastic exposure and the importance of a precautionary approach.