Over the years, many studies have been conducted that have shown surprising levels of microplastics in the human body. Even more reports have shown that to-go cups, especially those used for balmy drinks such as coffee, play a significant role. Microplastics have been recognized as a massive problem in newfangled life. But now some researchers are questioning the findings, saying microplastic levels have been overestimated and are likely the result of large-scale false positives.
As reported Guardianmany scientists have formally questioned the findings of a number of papers regarding the levels of microplastics found in human bodies. Many of the challenges presented were related to methodology, “such as circumscribed pollution control and lack of validation steps, which may impact the reliability of reported concentrations” of microplastics.
In one study in which microplastics were discovered in brain tissue, Dr. Dušan Materic from the Environmental Research Center. Helmholtz in Germany noted that fats often give a false positive result for polyethylene and that the brain is composed of almost 60% fat. More bluntly, Dr. Materic calls the publication “a joke” and “it’s very basic to explain why it’s wrong.” He then expresses his doubts about the findings in “more than half of the very high impact papers” on microplastics in humans.
In another study that found microplastics in arteries, the results were criticized for not examining blind samples from the operating room, which is used to measure background contamination levels.
In response to these claims, the author of the brain study states: “Most of the criticism leveled at the work to date (i.e. from our lab and others) is speculative and not supported by actual data.”
Both sides seem to agree that the methodology for testing microplastics continues to evolve to meet needs. Despite this, the study’s authors stand by their findings, while opponents call the research “irresponsible,” saying it may lead to “scaremongering.”
Similarly, both sides agree that there are microplastics inside people and precautions should be taken to limit exposure to them, but the differences concern the level and possible impact of microplastics on people – including coffee drinkers.
