A recent study reveals that bottled water contains up to 100 times more plastic particles than expected. On average, 240,000 plastic fragments per liter of water were detected in several popular brands using an innovative technique. This discovery raises questions about the potential consequences for our health.
Beizhan Yan, co-author of the study, suggests that if there is concern about nanoplastics in bottled water, it would be wise to turn to tap water. However, he specifies that bottled water remains a necessary option to avoid dehydration, despite the risk of exposure.
Nanoplastics, particles less than a micrometer, are so small that they can enter the blood system and reach organs, including the brain and heart. Research into their effects on health and ecosystems is still limited, but some harmful effects have already been identified.
The study reported here used a new laser-based technique to test three waters, the brands of which were not disclosed. The results revealed that each liter contained between 110,000 and 370,000 particles, 90% of which were nanoplastics. The most common type was nylon, probably from plastic filters used to purify water, followed by polyethylene terephthalate (PET), the material of the bottles themselves. In the future, researchers hope to test tap water, which also contains microplastics, but a priori in smaller quantities.
 Frank Verain
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09/01/2024 | 
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