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Microplastics are extremely small plastic particles, typically less than 5 millimeters in size. They come from everyday objects like water bottles, food containers and break into very small pieces. These particles have infiltrated the human body and have been found in almost every organ, from the liver to the stomach and even in blood vessels. Often, these are thought to come from plastic containers, but did you know that microplastics have also infiltrated food?
An Italian study published July 10 in the journal NPJ Sources of Food revealed that cheese also contains hidden microplastics. The study was conducted by the University of Padua.
Also read: What to eat and avoid dairy products for better heart health
Cheese contains more microplastics than milk
In fact, studies show that most dairy products, not just cheese, contain microplastics. Researchers tested 28 dairy samples, including milk and various cheeses, and found microplastics in all but two. Cheese contains more microplastics than milk. While milk contains about 350 particles per kilogram, cheese contains 1,000 particles per kilogram. PET, polyethylene and polypropylene are common plastics. These are usually associated with packaging, indicating one of the causes of contamination.
Additionally, farming equipment, animal feed or processing machinery can also be other factors that can cause contamination, leading to hidden microplastics in dairy products.
Which types of cheese contain more microplastics?
Some types of cheese contain more microplastics. Fresh cheeses like mozzarella, ricotta, cheese had fewer particles, amounting to only around 1,280 per kilogram, while ripe/aged cheeses like cheddar, gouda, parmesan had more particles, amounting to 1,857 per kilogram.
what are the consequences?
Microplastics, when enter the human system, can cause inflammation, hormone disruption, liver damage, gut problems and mental health problems. Cancer, infertility, heart disease and lung disease remain long-term health risks.
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you may have about a medical condition.
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