The Gum You Are Chewing Is A Hidden Source Of Microplastics

Chewing gum may seem harmless, or even like a jaw workout, but it can be harmful. Why? Because it is a hidden source for microplastics that you may be chewing with the gum. A new study presented at the American Chemical Society meeting in San Diego has found that a single piece of gum can release hundreds or even thousands of microplastics particles into saliva.

Microplastics are plastic fragments smaller than five millimeters. While most foods are contaminated with microplastics through packaging and processing, gum is unique, because its base contains synthetic polymers. These polymers are essentially plastics, and they are used to maintain the gum's texture and elasticity.

According to the study, both synthetic and natural gums release microplastics at similar rates. The primary types of plastic detected were polyolefins, polyterephthalates, polyacrylamides, and polystyrenes—materials commonly found in packaging and consumer goods. When gum is chewed, the friction breaks down the polymers, releasing these plastic particles directly into the mouth.

How Many Microplastics Are We Chewing With The Gum?

The researchers tested ten commercially available chewing gums and found that chewing just one gram of gum released an average of 100 microplastic particles. Some brands released as many as 637 particles per gram. Given that gum sticks often weigh more than a gram, the total exposure could be significantly higher.

Interestingly, most of the microplastics (94%) were released within the first eight minutes of chewing. This suggests that even short periods of gum chewing can contribute to microplastic exposure.

How Do Microplastics Affect The Human Body?

Microplastics can enter a human body through any medium, it could be food, water, or even air. Studies have detected these tiny particles in the lungs, liver, heart, intestines, brain, testicles, and even in placenta. One of the most alarming findings came from a researchers Dr Heather Leslie and her team in Netherlands. They were the first to detect microplastics in human blood.

READ HERE: Our Bodies Are Full Of Microplastics

Once these microplastics are inside the body, they can also cross biological barriers. For instance, some microplastics are small enough to enter bloodstream, where they become coated with fats and protein. It forms a 'corona' that then helps them evade the immune system. Microplastics have also been found in breast milk, semen, and it has raised concerns about their potential impact on the reproductive health.

Can the Body Get Rid of Microplastics?

Research suggests that most ingested microplastics exit the body through stool and urine. However, some particles are absorbed into the bloodstream and may accumulate over time in various organs. While the exact effects on human health remain uncertain, early studies have linked microplastic presence to inflammatory diseases, heart conditions, and reproductive health issues.

Are Microplastics Harmful to Humans?

The health risks of microplastic exposure are still under investigation. Some studies suggest potential links between microplastics and conditions such as heart disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and chronic sinusitis. For example, Italian researchers found that people with microplastics in arterial plaques were more likely to suffer heart attacks or strokes.

Though no direct causal link has been established, the growing body of research highlights the need for further studies. Scientists are particularly interested in how long-term exposure to microplastics might impact human health and whether certain types of microplastics pose greater risks than others.

What Can Be Done About Microplastics in Gum?

The National Confectioners Association, which represents gum manufacturers, maintains that chewing gum is safe. However, as awareness of microplastic contamination grows, consumers may start demanding gum made without synthetic polymers.

For those looking to reduce their exposure, switching to gum made entirely from natural ingredients—such as chicle, a plant-based alternative—could be a better option. Additionally, broader regulations and improved food safety standards could help minimize microplastic contamination in everyday products.