Microplastics in Water: Removal, Filtration, and Health Impacts

Microplastics have been found in almost every source of water, including tap water, bottled water, and natural bodies of water such as rivers and oceans. As these tiny plastic particles accumulate in the environment, they enter the food chain and make their way into the human body, posing a major threat to health. Research has detected microplastics in human organs, raising concerns about their potential health impacts.

This article explores how microplastics contaminate drinking water, air pollution and food, the risks they pose to human health, and effective ways to remove them from daily consumption.

Introduction to Microplastics in Water

Microplastics have become a significant concern in recent years due to their widespread presence in the environment, including in water sources. These tiny plastic particles, less than 5 millimeters in size, originate from various sources such as plastic debris, microbeads, and synthetic fibers. They can enter the water supply through multiple pathways, including wastewater treatment plants, agricultural runoff, and atmospheric deposition. Once in the water, microplastics pose risks to both human health and the environment. Their small size allows them to bypass many filtration systems, making them a persistent contaminant in our water sources.

How Do Microplastics Get Into Drinking Water?

Microplastics in water come from various sources, including industrial waste, plastic packaging, and the breakdown of larger plastic debris. Studies have shown that both tap and bottled water contain plastic particles, making it difficult to avoid exposure. Their small size allows them to bypass many filtration processes, making them a persistent contaminant in our water sources.

Common Sources of Microplastics in Drinking Water

1. Breakdown of Plastic Waste

• Large plastic items degrade over time, releasing microscopic fragments into water supplies.

• Plastic debris exposed to sunlight breaks down into microplastics within months.

2. Wastewater Discharge

• Microplastics from household products, such as synthetic fibers from clothing and microbeads from cosmetics, enter waterways through wastewater treatment plants.

• Many filtration systems, due to the limitations of their filter media, are unable to capture these tiny particles, allowing them to pass into rivers and lakes.

3. Bottled Water Contamination

• Studies have found that bottled water often contains more microplastics than tap water due to plastic leaching from the bottle itself.

• ​A comprehensive study led by Orb Media in 2018 analyzed over 250 bottled water samples from 11 leading brands across various countries. The findings revealed that 93% of these samples contained microplastics, with an average of 325 particles per liter. Notably, some bottles contained concentrations as high as 10,000 microplastic particles per liter. ​

Microplastics in Drinking Water

Microplastics have been detected in drinking water sources worldwide, spanning both marine and freshwater environments. These particles can infiltrate the drinking water supply through several means, including wastewater treatment plants, water distribution systems, and even during the water treatment process itself. The presence of microplastics in drinking water raises significant concerns about potential health risks. Research indicates that microplastics can leach harmful chemicals and heavy metals into the water, which can then be ingested by humans, posing various health risks.

Air Quality and Microplastic Exposure

Air quality plays a crucial role in microplastic exposure. Studies have shown that microplastics can become airborne and be transported through the air, leading to potential inhalation exposure. This is particularly concerning in areas with poor air quality, where the concentration of airborne microplastics may be higher. Additionally, air pollution contributes to the formation of microplastics in the environment. Pollutants such solid particles such as fine particulate matter and ozone can break down larger plastic particles into smaller microplastics, further exacerbating the issue.

Water Quality and Microplastic Exposure

Water quality is another critical factor in microplastic exposure. Research has demonstrated that microplastics are often present in water sources with poor water quality, characterized by high levels of particulate matter, nutrients, or other pollutants. This can lead to an increased risk of exposure to microplastics through drinking water, recreational activities, or food consumption. Moreover, poor water quality can facilitate the formation of microplastics, as pollutants in the water can break down larger plastic particles into smaller ones, compounding the contamination problem.

Health Impacts of Microplastics in Drinking Water

Scientists are still studying the long-term effects of consuming microplastics, but early research suggests they could pose risks to human serious health problems, including respiratory issues such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Once ingested, microplastics can pass through the digestive system or enter the bloodstream, potentially accumulating in organs.

Microplastics Found in Human Organs

A study confirmed that microplastics were found in human blood, where the average concentration of plastic particles in the blood was 1.6 µg/ml, providing a quantitative measure of microplastic presence in the human circulatory system.

Researchers have also detected microplastics in human lungs, liver, and placenta, raising concerns about potential long-term effects, including reduced lung function.

Potential Health Risks

• Inflammation and Cellular Damage

• Microplastics can trigger an immune response, leading to chronic inflammation.

• Some plastics contain harmful chemicals such as BPA and phthalates, which are known endocrine disruptors.

• Exposure to microplastics can also lead to respiratory diseases, exacerbating conditions such as asthma and chronic bronchitis.

• Toxic Chemical Accumulation

• Microplastics can absorb and transport heavy metals and pollutants, increasing the risk of toxin exposure.

• Plastic particles act as carriers for harmful bacteria, which could pose additional health risks.

Although more research is needed to fully understand the health impacts, reducing microplastic exposure is a precautionary step toward better long-term health.

One Health Approach to Microplastic Exposure

Addressing microplastic exposure requires a One Health approach, which recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental and health issues. This holistic strategy aims to tackle the root causes of microplastic contamination. By understanding the sources and pathways of microplastic exposure, we can develop effective measures to reduce exposure and mitigate associated health risks. This includes improving wastewater treatment processes, reducing plastic pollution, and promoting sustainable practices in agriculture and industry. By adopting a One Health approach, we can work towards a healthier environment and better global health outcomes.

How to Remove Microplastics from Water in Water Treatment Plants

Since microplastics are present in both bottled and tap water, filtering drinking water is one of the most effective ways to reduce exposure. Using a filter aid can enhance the efficiency of filtration systems, making them more effective at capturing microplastics. While standard water treatment plants remove some contaminants, many microplastics are small enough to pass through conventional filtration systems.

Best Water Filters and Filter Medium for Removing Microplastics

Certain filtration technologies have been proven to be efficient method highly effective in removing microplastics from drinking water.

1. Reverse Osmosis (RO) Filters

• Uses a semipermeable filter medium to trap particles as small as 0.0001 microns, making it one of the most effective filtration methods.

• ​A comprehensive review found that reverse osmosis (RO) systems are among the most effective methods, achieving microplastic removal efficiencies of up to 99%.

2. Activated Carbon Filters

• Absorbs contaminants, including organic compounds and plastic chemicals, but may not be as effective for microplastic removal.

• Works well in combination with other filters, such as RO or ultrafiltration systems.

3. Nanofiltration Systems

• Similar to reverse osmosis but with slightly larger pore sizes, removing most microplastics while retaining beneficial minerals.

4. Distillation

• Boils water and condenses the steam, leaving contaminants behind. This method is effective for removing microplastics and heavy metals.

Should You Stop Drinking Bottled Water?

Since bottled water has been found to contain more microplastics than tap water, switching to filtered water or tap water is a safer option. Studies using laboratory filtration techniques have found that bottled water often contains more microplastics than tap water.

• A study published in Frontiers in Chemistry analyzed 259 bottled water brands and found that 93% contained microplastic particles.

• Using a stainless steel or glass water bottle instead of plastic reduces additional contamination from packaging.

By using an effective filtration system and avoiding plastic packaging, individuals can significantly lower their intake of microplastics through drinking water.

How to Remove Microplastics from Food

Microplastics are not only present in drinking water but also in food. Pollutants such as carbon and nitrogen dioxide, can break down larger plastic particles into smaller microplastics, further contaminating food sources. Research has detected plastic particles in seafood, fruits, vegetables, and processed foods due to contamination in water and soil.

Ways to Reduce Microplastics in Food

1. Rinse Produce Thoroughly

• Washing fruits and vegetables under running water can help remove surface contaminants.

• Research has shown that apples and carrots can contain over 100,000 microplastics per gram.

• Using a partial vacuum can enhance the removal of microplastics from the surface of fruits and vegetables.

2. Avoid Processed and Packaged Foods

• Many processed foods contain microplastics due to packaging and manufacturing processes.

• Opt for fresh, unpackaged foods whenever possible.

3. Use Glass, Stainless Steel, or Silicone Containers

• Plastic food storage containers can shed microplastics, especially when heated or scratched.

• Avoid microwaving food in plastic, as heat increases plastic degradation and leaching.

4. Limit Seafood Consumption from Contaminated Waters

• Fish and shellfish are known to ingest microplastics from polluted water sources.

• Choosing seafood from cleaner, regulated fisheries can help reduce exposure.

Reducing plastic contact in food preparation and storage is a practical way to minimize ingestion of microplastics.

Microplastics in the Food Chain: How They Accumulate Over Time

Microplastics do not break down easily in the environment, which means they can build up in the food chain. Long-term exposure to microplastics can lead to unknown health effects, including adverse pregnancy outcomes such as low birth weight. As small organisms consume microplastics, they pass them on to larger predators, eventually reaching humans through food sources.

How Microplastics Enter the Food Chain

1. Marine Life Contamination

• Fish, shellfish, and other marine species ingest microplastics directly from polluted water.

• Recent studies have revealed a significant presence of microplastics in commercial fish species. For instance, a study analyzing fish from Australia and New Zealand found that 75% of the sampled fish contained microplastics, with an average of 2.5 particles per fish.

2. Agricultural Soil and Crops

• Microplastics enter soil through irrigation, fertilizers, and plastic mulch used in farming.

• Research indicates that agricultural soils can have microplastic concentrations up to 23 times greater than those found in oceanic environments.

• Air pollutants can also contribute to microplastic contamination in agricultural soils.

3. Livestock and Dairy Products

• Animals that consume contaminated feed or water may accumulate microplastics in their tissues.

• This contamination can pass into meat, milk, and eggs, increasing human exposure.

Because microplastics accumulate throughout the food chain, long-term exposure may lead to unknown health effects, making it crucial to reduce environmental contamination.

Conclusion 

Microplastics are now present in nearly every part of the environment, including drinking water, food, and the air we breathe. Studies have confirmed their presence in human organs, including the bloodstream, lungs, and digestive system, raising concerns about long-term health effects, including those related to air pollution exposure. While more research is needed to determine the full impact of microplastic exposure, reducing ingestion is a key step in protecting overall public health here.

Filtering drinking water, avoiding plastic food packaging, and choosing fresh, unpackaged foods are practical ways to reduce exposure. Monitoring personal contamination levels through testing can also help individuals make informed decisions about their health and environment.

For those who want to take a proactive approach, the MicroplastX Test Kit offers an easy and effective way to detect microplastics in water, food, and household environments.

Start testing your exposure today—protect your health and reduce your plastic footprint with the MicroplastX Test Kit.