Warning about the dangers of chewing gum: Plastic enters the body

Many people resort to chewing gum to freshen their breath, help quit smoking, and many other reasons. However, a new study has revealed shocking facts.

The study, conducted by scientists from Queen's University Belfast, found that chewing gum can release thousands of microplastic particles into saliva, increasing the likelihood of unintentional ingestion.

The dangers of chewing gum

Although scientists are still studying the extent of these particles' danger to human health, they have advised reducing the number of pieces of gum we chew to limit potential exposure.

Furthermore, the research has shown that gum may contain microplastic particles, just like many everyday products we are regularly exposed to, according to the Daily Mail. These particles, which range in size from one micrometer to five millimeters, are known to result from the decomposition of plastics in the environment or their use in everyday products such as cutting boards and clothing. In their study, the scientists also used a technique called "automated spectroscopy" to assess the number of particles entering saliva through chewing. They discovered that, in just one hour, up to 250,000 microplastics are released.

The Danger of Plastic Materials

Of concern, the long-term effects of these microplastics on human health remain unclear.

Dr. Kong Cao, one of the study's authors, said: "This study contributes to addressing the global problem of micro- and nanoplastic pollution by providing an efficient and accessible method for detecting these plastics, while also revealing overlooked sources of exposure, such as chewing gum."

He added: "Our findings fill gaps in micro- and nanoplastic detection and highlight the importance of raising awareness and highlighting chewing gum as an underrecognized source of plastic exposure."

Plastic Particles

Chewing gum is typically made from a rubber base with sweeteners and flavorings. Some types use natural materials such as tree resin, while others rely on synthetic rubber materials derived from petroleum polymers. The researchers initially assumed that synthetic-based gum would contain more plastic particles, but the results were surprising. The study showed that both natural and synthetic types contained similar amounts of particles. David Jones, a teaching fellow at the University of Portsmouth, explained in an article published in The Conversation: "Chemical analysis showed that the gum contained styrene butadiene (a durable synthetic chemical used in car tires), polyethylene (the plastic used in shopping bags and bottles), and polyvinyl acetate (wood glue), as well as some sweeteners and flavorings."

Cancer Cells

Earlier this year, a study found that bowel cancer cells spread at an accelerated rate after coming into contact with microplastics.

Experts have also sounded the alarm about a possible link between microplastics and reproductive health. For example, scientists warned last June that they had found microplastics in men's sperm.