From sea salt to beer, discover the most dangerous foods for our health

Microplastics, these tiny plastic particles, the size of which does not exceed 5 millimeters, have managed to flood the environment, including the food and drinks we consume every day.

Researchers have linked exposure to microplastics and nanoplastics to the occurrence of inflammation, immune dysregulation, and metabolic disorders.

7 foods and drinks with the highest percentage of microplastics

1. Sea salt: contains 0.4-5.8 grains per teaspoon (5 g)

Due to ocean pollution, microplastics have been found in sea salt. A 2023 study, which analyzed 13 European brands, found levels ranging from 74 to 1,155 particles per kilogram, with traditionally harvested salts containing significantly lower levels.

The most common type of plastic is polyethylene terephthalate (PET), which is used to make plastic bottles. Although the health effects remain unclear, sea salt may contribute to overall exposure.

Choose rock salt or pink Himalayan salt, which are less likely to be contaminated with modern microplastics. However, if you still choose sea salt, prefer brands with traditional harvesting methods or companies that undergo independent quality control.

2. Beer: contains from 2 to 79 particles per liter

Microplastics have been detected in various beer samples, originating either through contaminated water sources or during the brewing process. A study of 24 German beer brands found fibers, fragments, and granular material in all samples, with measurements ranging from 2 to 79 particles per liter. A similar study in PLOS ONE found microplastics in all 12 beer brands tested in the US and Canada.

3. Bottled water: contains between 325 and 10,000 particles per liter

Studies show that bottled water can contain significant amounts of microplastics, mainly from the packaging and bottling process. Bottled water samples contained an average of 325 particles per liter, with some reaching 10,000.

Prefer filtered tap water, stored in stainless steel or glass containers. Never drink water from a plastic bottle that has been exposed to the sun.

4. Shellfish: contain from 7.6 to 10.7 particles per gram (shrimp), and about 1.4 per gram (oysters)

Shellfish such as shrimp, mussels, clams and oysters are filter feeders and accumulate microplastics, which are then transferred to the consumer.

You can expand your protein sources by choosing plant-based proteins, like poultry and fish, from sources with lower pollution. Studies have shown that fish and seafood from Australia contain less microplastics.

5. Rice: contains up to 13 micrograms of plastic per 100 grams of pre-cooked (instant) rice, or 3 to 4 micrograms per 100 grams of washed rice

Rice, although seemingly “clean,” contains plastics such as polyethylene, polypropylene, and PET in 95% of samples. Instant rice contains four times more plastic than regular rice, reaching 13 micrograms per 100 grams.

Choose minimally processed rice and rinse it well before cooking. Choose organic varieties for reduced exposure to microplastics and better metabolic health.

6. Apples and carrots: up to 44.6 million particles per apple / up to 14.7 million per 150 grams of carrots

Microplastics are not limited to surfaces, but are also absorbed by plant tissues. A 2020 study found that apples and carrots had the highest concentrations, with apples leading among fruits and carrots leading among vegetables.

Choose bulk, locally grown produce. Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly and, if possible, peel them. Choosing seasonal and organic produce reduces long-term exposure to microplastics.

7. Tea: 1 tea bag contains up to 11.6 billion particles

Some tea bags, when boiled, release billions of microplastics and nanoplastics into the drink. Choose so-called “mountain tea” or tea in biodegradable packaging.

 

Reducing our exposure to microplastics requires making informed decisions about the drinks and foods we consume. By choosing alternatives with a lower risk of contamination and supporting sustainable practices, we contribute to protecting our health and the environment.