What did the University of Nebraska researchers discover about microwaving plastic baby bottles?

Researchers at the University of Nebraska found that microwaving plastic baby bottles can release over 2 billion nanoplastics and 4 million microplastics per square centimeter.

How are microplastics and nanoplastics impacting human health?

Experts are still studying the long-term health effects of ingesting these tiny plastic particles, but warn that the impacts could be serious. The study found that exposure to the microplastics released during the experiment killed about 75% of kidney cells.

What advice did the researchers give to new parents?

Kazi Albab Hussain, who became a new father during the study, said he tried to limit using plastic products that released more microplastics and nanoplastics. He hopes future products will be labeled "microplastics-free" or "nanoplastics-free" to help consumers make safer choices.

Home / Health / Microwaving Plastics Unleashes Billions of Toxic Particles, Experts Warn

Microwaving Plastics Unleashes Billions of Toxic Particles, Experts Warn

31 Oct

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Summary

Microwaving plastic baby bottles releases over 2 billion nanoplastics and 4 million microplastics per square centimeter
Experts warn of unknown health impacts from ingesting these synthetic materials
Researchers urge FDA to be more proactive in regulating microplastic exposure

Microwaving Plastics Unleashes Billions of Toxic Particles, Experts Warn

In a concerning new study published last month, researchers at the University of Nebraska have found that microwaving plastic baby bottles can unleash hordes of tiny plastic particles. The team, led by Kazi Albab Hussain, discovered that a single 3-minute microwaving session can release over 2 billion nanoplastics and 4 million microplastics per square centimeter.

These microscopic plastic fragments have been detected everywhere from the highest mountain peaks to the deepest ocean trenches. Alarmingly, experts still don't fully understand how these synthetic materials may be impacting human health. "Even this one study should be a wake-up call -- not just to new parents but to the FDA," warned Judith Enck, a former EPA administrator.