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By drinking bottled water, we also ingest microplastics, these fragments of plastic which measure less than five millimeters. These come from the degradation of plastic materials.
This is not a surprise, many associations have been warning about this situation for years. Recently, this is a new study available in the journal PLOS Water which adds its stone to the building. It reveals to us that the concentration varies depending on the brand. This analysis, carried out by CNRS researchers in Toulouse, is based on the examination of ten bottled water references, without disclosing their names.
Bottled water: varying concentrations
The results show that microplastic concentrations range from 0.001 to 0.250 micrograms per liter, a significant difference. According to the researchers, this disparity highlights the influence of the brand that the French choose on the level of exposure to microplastics when drinking bottled water.
At the same time, the study measures microplastics present in tap water in Toulouse. Often, a debate ignites both camps. You know, those who opt for bottled water and those who only drink tap water. The latter emphasize that they do not consume microplastics, unlike the first.
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But is this correct? Not really. The study reveals that there are also microplastics. However, the types of plastics differ. This therefore suggests that other stages of water treatment are responsible for this contamination.
A risk for consumer health
The particles, whether from bottled or tap water, are mostly less than 20 microns in diameter. These very small particles are the most dangerous for human health, according to researchers. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), their size allows them to enter the bloodstream and reach different organs.
The study also demonstrates that precise measurement of these particles is possible, despite the reluctance of the European Commission which considers this detection complex. The authors emphasize the importance of including these microplastics in future regulations concerning drinking water (bottled water and tap water).
-The study does not conclude with the dangerousness of microplastics. It must be said that it remains uncertain. However, more and more research suggests links between their presence and various health problems.
Alarming pollution
Microplastics are everywhere today: in the air, water, food, packaging, textiles, tires and even cosmetics. Studies emphasize their presence in many human organs, including the lungs, liver, kidneys, and even the placenta.
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Faced with the urgency of the situation, the European Union plans to toughen the rules concerning microplastics. Last December, Member States approved measures requiring manufacturers to better control their use.
While waiting for stricter measures, it is possible to limit exposure with a few simple actions. First of all, we advise you to avoid bottled water. More broadly, beware of plastic.
For example, do not heat food in plastic containers. Also opt for clothing made from natural fibers. Finally, we advise you regularly ventilate your interior to reduce the concentration of particles in the air.
These actions are insufficient to eradicate the problem. But they make it possible to reduce risks through a precautionary principle. As for bottled water, do not hesitate to read the numerous studies available to you.
