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Kimchi Bacterium Fights Body's Microplastics
25 Mar
Summary
- Kimchi bacteria bind to nanoplastics for excretion.
- Study shows significant increase in nanoplastic detection.
- Fermented food microbes offer biological approach to plastic pollution.
Microplastics and nanoplastics are increasingly found in human organs, posing risks to DNA, metabolism, and reproductive health. A recent study published in Bioresource Technology reveals a potential natural solution: a bacterium present in kimchi.
This specific lactic acid bacterium has been shown to bind to nanoplastics within the intestine. Following this binding, the bacteria and attached nanoplastics are excreted through the bowels.
Experimental results in mice showed that the kimchi-derived bacterium detected twice the amount of nanoplastics in feces compared to a control group. Researchers suggest that microorganisms from fermented foods could represent a new biological method for addressing plastic contamination in the body.
Kimchi, a traditional spicy fermented vegetable dish, is commonly made with napa cabbage and radishes. Beyond its taste, it may offer significant health benefits in managing plastic exposure.
