We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Ingestion of microplastics during chewing gum consumption
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers found that chewing gum — both natural and synthetic types — releases hundreds of microplastic particles directly into the mouth, with up to 637 particles per gram and 94% released within the first 8 minutes of chewing. This makes chewing gum a direct, largely overlooked route for microplastic ingestion in everyday life.
Chewing gums typically contain plant-based or synthetic plastic polymers to improve their texture and flavor retention. These polymer fragments or microplastics can be released into the environment when disposed of improperly or ingested while chewing gums. Yet, how many microplastics a person may ingest while chewing gums is unknown. Analyzing microplastics released into saliva from 5 natural and 5 synthetic chewing gums, we found that each gram of chewing gum could release up to 637 microplastics, and 94 % of microplastics were released within the first 8 min of chewing. Surprisingly, synthetic chewing gum released a similar (p > 0.8) number of microplastics as natural or plant-based chewing gums. Microplastics released from the chewing gums were predominantly small, with a median size of 45.4 µm. Both of the chewing gum types released four types of plastic polymers—polyolefins, polyterephthalates (PET), polyacrylamides, and polystyrenes,— among which polyolefins were the most abundant. The result reveals that chewing gum consumption, irrespective of the type of chewing gums, could result in direct ingestion of microplastics. • Chewing gums released 4–636 microplastics g −1 to saliva. • Synthetic and natural chewing gums released similar numbers of microplastics. • 94 % of microplastics are released within the first 8 min of chewing. • Most microplastics released are smaller than 50 µm.
More Papers Like This
Chewing Gum to Microplastic: Hidden Pollution and Its Scalable Circular Upcycling Pathways
AI summary Read the abstract
This review pulls together early research showing that chewing gum—even "natural" or plastic-free brands—can shed tiny plastic particles into your saliva as you chew, with most of it releasing in the first few minutes. The findings are still preliminary (based on limited products and testing methods), but they suggest gum is an overlooked source of microplastic exposure that deserves more study, especially since we still don't know what these particles do to our health. On a positive note, researchers are exploring how to recycle used gum into useful materials like flexible sensors, though this is still early-stage work.
From automated Raman to cost-effective nanoparticle-on-film (NPoF) SERS spectroscopy: A combined approach for assessing micro- and nanoplastics released into the oral cavity from chewing gum
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers developed a cost-effective method using household metallic foils to detect nanoplastics released from chewing gum into saliva during one hour of chewing. They found over 250,000 microplastic particles and additional nanoplastics released from the gum base into the oral cavity. This study highlights an overlooked route of direct microplastic exposure through a common everyday product that millions of people use.
Release of microplastics during dental procedures and denture wear: Impact on dental personnel and patients
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers found that common dental procedures like grinding and cleaning dentures release significant amounts of microplastics into the air and surroundings. Both dental workers and patients are exposed to these particles through inhalation and ingestion during routine dental care. This study identifies dental clinics as a previously unrecognized source of microplastic exposure for both healthcare workers and the general public.
Dental Calculus Microplastics: Exposure Assessment And Cytotoxicity On Gingival Fibroblasts
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers detected microplastics in dental calculus — the hardened plaque that builds up on teeth — at an average of over 3,600 particles per gram, with polyamide and polyethylene among the most common types. Exposing gum cells to these particles reduced their viability and triggered cell death, suggesting microplastics accumulate in the mouth and may harm oral tissues.
The peril of microplastics and nanoplastics on periodontal tissue
AI summary Read the abstract
Tiny plastic particles from our environment, called microplastics and nanoplastics, can end up in your mouth through the food you eat, the air you breathe, and everyday contact, and this review of existing research suggests they may settle into your gums and contribute to gum disease. Scientists think these plastic particles could damage gum tissue, disrupt the balance of bacteria in your mouth, trigger inflammation, and interfere with the bone that holds your teeth in place. While more research is needed to confirm exactly how big a role plastics play, this adds gum health to the growing list of reasons to be concerned about our daily plastic exposure
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.