Plastic water bottles are convenient, but at a cost. In this article, we're going to explore what the dangerous invisible truths are lingering in each sip.
The typical bottle of water contains almost a quarter million minuscule nanoplastics, recently identified and classified using a microscope equipped with dual lasers. Although scientists had previously suspected the presence of these microscopic plastic particles, it wasn't until researchers at Columbia and Rutgers universities conducted their analysis that the quantity and types became apparent. The study examined samples from three popular bottled water brands, revealing particle levels ranging from 110,000 to 400,000 per liter, averaging around 240,000.
Nanoplastics are particles smaller than a micron, with 25,400 microns in an inch and a human hair measuring about 83 microns wide. Unlike previous studies that focused on slightly larger microplastics, ranging from visible 5 millimeters to one micron, this study found 10 to 100 times more nanoplastics in bottled water.
The primary sources of these nanoplastics appear to be the bottles themselves and the reverse osmosis membrane filter used to prevent other contaminants. The researchers did not disclose the specific brands but mentioned they were common and purchased at Walmart.
The crucial question remains unanswered: Are these nanoplastic pieces harmful to health? According to study co-author Phoebe Stapleton, a toxicologist at Rutgers, the potential danger is under review, as researchers are investigating how these particles interact with cells. The International Bottled Water Association emphasized the lack of standardized measuring methods and scientific consensus on the health impacts of nanoplastics, discouraging unnecessary panic among consumers.
The world faces a significant challenge with over 430 million tonnes of plastic produced annually, contributing to plastic pollution in oceans, food, and drinking water. Efforts for a global plastics treaty continue as microplastics persist in various forms.
All four co-authors of the study admitted to reducing their bottled water use after conducting the research. While acknowledging the general unease about fine plastic particles, experts caution that it's too early to determine the full extent of the risks. Duke University professor Jason Somarelli highlighted concerns about additives in plastics, citing potential cell stress, DNA damage, and metabolic changes.
Despite the concerns, there's no clear solution. Filters, intended to purify water, may introduce plastics themselves. Even with these uncertainties, the study's authors recommend using reusable bottles as a precaution. Further research is underway to examine municipal water supplies in various locations and assess the presence of plastics in tap water compared to bottled water.
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