There have been multiple studies over the years that have found startlng levels of microplastics in the human body. Even more reports have shown that to-go cups, particularly those used for hot drinks, like coffee, play a significant role. Microplastics have become accepted as a big problem for modern life. But now, some researchers are challenging the findings, saying that the level of microplastics has been overreported and likely the result of large-scale false positives.
As reported by the Guardian, multiple scientists have formally challenged the findings on a number of papers regarding microplastic levels found in human bodies. Many of the challenges presented have been to the methodology, “such as limited contamination controls and lack of validation steps, which may affect the reliability of the reported concentrations” of microplastics.
In one study where microplastics were discovered in brain tissue, Dr. Dušan Materić of the Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research in Germany noted that fats often result in a false-positive for polyethylene and that the brain is comprised of nearly 60% fat. Put more bluntly, Dr. Materić calls the paper “a joke” and that “it is very explainable why it is wrong.” He goes onto state his doubt on the findings of “more than half of the very high impact papers” about microplastics in humans.
In another study, where microplastics were found in arteries, the results were criticized over not testing blank samples from the operating room, which is used to measure levels of background contamination.
In response to the claims, the author of the brain study states, “Most of the criticism aimed at the body of work to date (ie from our lab and others) has been conjectural and not buffeted by actual data.”
Both sides seem to agree that the methodology for testing microplastics is still developing to meet the need. Even so, the studies’ authors stand by their findings, meanwhile the dissenters are calling the studies “irresponsible”, stating that they can lead to “scaremongering”.
Likewise, both sides agree that there are microplastics inside humans and precautions should be taking to limit one’s exposure to them, but where they differ are on the levels and what, if any, effect microplastics have on humans—including coffee drinkers.
Zac Cadwalader is the managing editor at Sprudge Media Network and a staff writer based in Dallas. Read more Zac Cadwalader on Sprudge.
