The Hidden Danger in Chewing Gum
Chewing gum is often seen as a simple and harmless habit to freshen breath and relieve stress.
However, recently a study has raised safety concerns. According to this research each time gum is chewed that releases thousands of tiny plastic particles is known as microplastics into the mouth which get then be swallowed without even realizing it.
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Study findings | Chewing Gum and Microplastics
The study was presented at the American Chemical Society’s Spring 2025 meeting and revealed a surprising discovery that both synthetic and natural gums can release micro plastics into the mouth.
These tiny plastic particles accumulate in the body contributing to the growing amount of micro plastics consumed each year.
The Hidden Danger in Chewing Gum | What are Microplastics?
Micro plastics are tiny fragments of plastic which are basically measured as less than 5 millimeters in size. Anything smaller and measured in billionths of a meter is referred to as nano plastics. These microscopic plastic pieces have become widespread, appearing in oceans, food and even in the air.
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How the Study was conducted
Lisa Lowe a doctoral researcher at UCLA chewed seven pieces from 10 different gum brands to explore how much plastic is in chewing gum. After chewing, her saliva was analyzed for micro plastics.
The results were surprising and shocking: On an average, one gram of gum releases 100 microplastic particles. In some cases there were more than 600 particles found.
one piece of gum can release up to 3,000 plastic particles as per its weighs between 2 and 6 grams.
Most of these micro plastics are released from the gum within the first two minutes of chewing.
Synthetic vs Natural Gums | Both Contain Microplastics
Mostly people think that synthetic gum is the main culprit since it is made with petroleum based materials.
However, the study found that even natural gums which are thought to be healthier and more environmentally friendly also release significant amounts-of-microplastics in mouth while chewing.
What was the response from gum Manufacturers
The National Confectioners Association reassured the public about a study on micro plastics in gum, highlighting that the authors found no health risks. They emphasized that gum has been safely consumed for over a century, with all ingredients approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Should People Stop Chewing Gum? or finding alternatives to freshen breath
Since, The study related to chewing gum highlights an alarming problem with presence of microplastic.
Although its harmful effects on health have not been confirmed.
This situation raises questions about daily exposure to plastic which is already present in the environment and everyday products as well.
Consider reducing gum intake or finding alternatives: Since, there are many ways available so far to freshen breath and relieve stress without using products that contain microplastics.
More on The Hidden Danger in Chewing Gum | Side effect of chewing gum
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