Introduction
A recent scientific study has raised concerns about the health risks of chewing gum, revealing that it releases hundreds of microplastics into the body. Researchers warn that frequent gum chewers may be unknowingly consuming thousands of these tiny plastic particles, which could contribute to chronic illnesses, including cancer.
Study Findings
- The study, presented at the American Chemical Society (ACS) conference (March 23-27, 2025), found that just one gram of chewing gum can release up to 100 microplastics, with some brands releasing over 600 microplastic particles per gram.
- Researchers tested five synthetic and five natural gum brands, discovering microplastics in both types.
- An individual who chews around 100 gums per year may ingest up to 20,000 microplastic particles.
Health Risks of Microplastics
- Microplastics have been previously detected in human lungs, blood, placenta, breast milk, and even the brain.
- Scientists warn that microplastics in the brain may lead to structural changes, increasing the risk of dementia, stroke, and heart attack by 4.5 times.
- The presence of microplastics in liver and kidneys is also linked to various metabolic disorders.
Hidden Plastics in Chewing Gum
- Most commercial chewing gums contain synthetic polymers derived from petroleum, yet manufacturers do not list plastic ingredients on product labels.
- According to David Jones, a researcher at the University of Portsmouth, some plastic compounds found in chewing gum were previously unknown to scientists.
Broader Microplastic Concerns
- Microplastics are also present in packaged foods, salt, sugar, plastic containers, and bottled water.
- A previous study detected microplastics in human blood, raising concerns about their long-term effects on the immune and cardiovascular systems.
Conclusion
Health experts recommend limiting the consumption of synthetic chewing gum and being mindful of microplastic exposure from daily products. While the full health impact is still under investigation, researchers stress the urgent need to reduce plastic consumption to prevent future health crises.
