New study: Microplastics in drinking water not dangerous to humans

In recent years, reports showing the presence of microplastics in drinking water have been dense.

According to a research compilation, developed on behalf of the World Wildlife Fund WWF earlier this year, we can get up to five grams of plastic a week only by consuming food and drink. The majority of microplastics are believed to enter the body through the water we drink - which includes both tap and bottle water.

In a new research compilation, WHO has investigated the health effects of microplastics on humans. And the result is essentially soothing.

- Health risks are considered to be small, says Bruce Gordon, coordinator of water, sanitation, hygiene and health at WHO.

One possible risk scenario has been that plastic particles enter the body and cause damage to organs and tissues. But existing research shows that the majority of microplastics only pass through the body. Microplastics with a size greater than 150 micrometers are not believed to be absorbed by the human body at all. Nor are smaller particles likely to do so, writes WHO.

On the other hand, in the case of very small plastic particles, in nano size, the potential risks are higher. The research in this area is not large enough to draw conclusions about their impact on the human body. But there is also no indication that they would pose a serious danger, the organization writes.

Microplastics is a collective name for small plastic fragments up to five millimeters in size. They can be made of different types of plastic in different sizes and shapes. Although there is nothing to indicate that they pose a direct danger to humans, more research is needed in the field, WHO believes.

"For example, more research is needed on the toxicity of the particles, what they can secrete in our bodies," says Bruce Gordon, who at the same time does not want to send alarming signals.

- Consumers can calmly continue to drink tap water if they have access to good water supply, he says.