Researchers sound alarm over dangerous misconception about popular food: ‘There is no evidence’
A. new research study It reveals a surprising misconception about microplastics and seafood. Researchers found that popular misinformation causes people to avoid foods that are actually healthy to consume.
What’s going on?
Some researchers A team from Heriot-Watt University examined how previous studies had analyzed microplastic contamination. The findings highlight a worrying trend: The majority of microplastic news focuses on the wrong risk factors.
“More than 70% of science and media coverage of microplastics in food focused on seafood, contributing to the public perception that eating fish is the greatest risk,” according to a Heriot-Watt University report.
However, researchers found that consuming fish is not the biggest risk factor for exposure to microplastics. Instead, individuals are exposed to the highest concentrations of microplastics from indoor air and dust.
Professor Ted Henry from the Heriot-Watt School of Energy, Earth Sciences, Infrastructure and Society in question: “Seafood such as mussels, oysters, and salmon and cod may contain 1-10 microplastic particles per day, which is consistent with other foods such as salt, honey, and chicken.
“Bottled water consumption is estimated at 10-100 particles per day, and exposure from indoor air means a much higher exposure – 100-1000 particles per day.
“There is little evidence that they pose a health risk. Our evidence suggests that plastic particles easily pass through the digestive tract and exit the body.”
Why is the new research study important?
New study highlights the alarming impact of misinformation. In this case, individuals are incorrectly trying to reduce microplastic exposure due to incorrect focus on a single sector.
“This misperception has real consequences, as some consumers report reducing their seafood consumption due to concerns about exposure to microplastics, thereby missing out on the health benefits of seafood consumption,” Heriot-Watt University said. reported.
Henry reiterated that the danger of eating microplastics may be a bit exaggerated at this point.
“It is important to put seafood in context, not only because exposure levels are similar to other foods, but also because seafood provides important health benefits,” the professor said. “Yes, microplastics have become common in every environment, but there is no evidence that ingesting them is harmful to humans.
However, a growing body of research suggests that microplastics are harmful to both the environment and public health. When microplastics enter soil, they release toxins into the surrounding soil. These microplastics then accumulate in local plants and wildlife, just as they accumulate in our bodies.
“There are knowledge gaps around exposure levels and understanding of health effects, but alarmist headlines that are not evidence-based do not serve the public,” the professor added.
What is being done against microplastic pollution?
Researchers speak out and provide evidence to debunk seemingly exaggerated claims about microplastics. you can help Fighting microplastic pollution By ditching single-use plastics, repurposing items whenever possible, and choosing non-toxic glass containers.
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