Are There Micro and Nano Plastics in Bottled Water?

A recent study by researchers at Columbia University has been doing the rounds in news articles, social media, and has been working its way into conversations all over the country. Now it’s not news that there are micro plastics in the things we consume, we already know it has worked its way into our seafood and our bottled water - however, this study really highlights just how much we underestimated the amount that makes it onto our plates, and into our bottles.

What is the difference between micro plastics and nano plastics?

Without over simplifying it, the size. Micro plastics are between 5mm to 1 micrometre, and nano plastics are sized below 1 micrometer in size.

What is the problem with nano plastics in my water?

As it is such a recent discovery, the biggest concern is that we just don’t know what long term effects consuming micro and nano plastics have on the human body. The consumption of all of these particles will be a focus of scientists all over the world, but without more time and research, it’s hard to say if and how big of a problem this is going to have on us as individuals.

Nano plastics are thought to be more of a concern than micro plastics, as their size could allow them to be more easily absorbed into our cells and blood stream.

How is the plastic getting into the water?

The study suggests that the plastic is likely getting into the water as the bottle is squeezed, undergoes heat exposure, and even from the friction from opening and closing the lid. Another key finding of the report suggests that the other source of these nano plastics are coming from the plastic filters that are used to purify water. The type of plastic that was found has led researchers to suppose that the filter contributed more plastic than the bottle itself.

There are other studies that suggest that due to the degradation of plastic around the world, nano and micro plastics are making their way into our water systems earlier than at the filtration and bottling process.

What are the takeaways from this?

Overall, the key takeaway from this shouldn’t be panic. Whilst these findings are concerning, these studies are still developing, and there are lots of other variables that will need to be researched before any conclusive answers can be drawn. This study focused on 3 of the most popular US bottled water brands, so knowing whether these were natural mineral waters or purified is going to make a big difference for water enthusiasts.  Water from glass bottles will also need to be compared, as well as other beverages in both plastic and glass bottles.

Ultimately, exposing ourselves to less risk in small ways will be beneficial, especially if this is something that concerns you. The World Health Organisation’s recommend to reduce the use of plastics where possible, so switching to a glass alternative - if possible - may be an avenue that you want to look into.