A new scientific study has revealed an alarming yet largely unknown source of microplastic ingestion—chewing gum. Researchers have found that both synthetic and natural chewing gums release thousands of microplastic particles into human saliva, raising concerns about the long-term health effects of habitual gum chewing.
The Study and Its Findings
The research, presented at the American Chemical Society’s Spring 2025 meeting, was conducted by scientists at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). The study aimed to measure the microplastic content released during the act of chewing gum. In controlled experiments, participants chewed different brands of gum for varying durations, and their saliva samples were analyzed.
The results were staggering. On average, a single gram of gum released approximately 100 microplastic particles, while some brands emitted as many as 600 particles per gram. Given that a typical piece of gum weighs between 2 and 6 grams, a single piece could introduce up to 3,000 microplastic particles into the body. For frequent gum chewers, this could amount to tens of thousands of particles ingested annually.
Synthetic and Natural Gums Both Contain Microplastics
A surprising revelation from the study was that even so-called “natural” gums contained and released microplastics at levels comparable to their synthetic counterparts. The study identified multiple polymer types, including polyolefins, polyethylene terephthalates, polystyrenes, and polyacrylamides—materials commonly found in plastic bags, food packaging, and synthetic fabrics. The presence of these polymers in natural gums challenges the widely held belief that they are a safer alternative.
Potential Health Impacts
The long-term health effects of ingesting microplastics remain a major area of concern. While research on the subject is still in its early stages, preliminary studies on animals and human cells suggest that microplastic exposure can lead to cellular damage, inflammation, and potential disruption of organ function. Some scientists fear that prolonged exposure could contribute to metabolic disorders or even hormonal imbalances, given the presence of endocrine-disrupting chemicals in plastics.
Consumer Awareness and Precautions
In light of these findings, experts suggest that consumers take steps to minimize their exposure to microplastics from chewing gum:
- Reduce Consumption: Limiting the frequency of gum chewing can significantly lower ingestion levels.
- Chew for Longer: The study found that most microplastic release occurs within the first two minutes of chewing. Keeping a piece of gum for a longer time may reduce the number of additional particles released.
- Proper Disposal: Used gum contributes to environmental pollution. Disposing of it responsibly can help prevent plastic waste accumulation in public spaces.
The discovery of microplastics in chewing gum highlights yet another hidden risk of plastic pollution in everyday consumer products. While more research is needed to fully understand the health implications, this study serves as a wake-up call for both consumers and manufacturers. As scientific investigations continue, individuals may want to rethink their gum-chewing habits or opt for verified plastic-free alternatives to reduce their exposure to microplastics.
Source: American Chemical Society (ACS) Spring 2025 Meeting, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Study
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