Microplastics Associated with Heart Attack Risk and Detected in Baby Food Pouches

Researchers from Sapienza University of Rome, the University of Verona and the University of Campania examined 61 patients undergoing testing for suspected coronary artery disease. Eighty‑four percent of those who had suffered an acute heart attack had detectable micro‑ and nanoplastic particles in coronary blood, compared with 40 % of chronic heart‑disease patients and 32 % of individuals with normal arteries. Polyethylene was the most common polymer. Smokers were about six times more likely to have plastics in their blood, and higher exposure to PM2.5 pollution was also associated with increased particle levels. The authors emphasised that the findings show a correlation, not a proven cause, and called for larger studies.

A separate laboratory analysis of commercial baby‑food packaging found that a single Gerber pouch contained an estimated 5,000 microplastic particles, while a gram of Happy Baby Organics puree held up to 99 particles. Millions of flexible plastic baby‑food pouches are used daily, raising concerns that infants may be ingesting invisible plastic contaminants on a large scale.