Microplastics from everyday items and emerging health research highlight growing concerns

A range of common products—including synthetic clothing, chewing gum, tea bags, plastic cutting boards, cardboard coffee cups with inner plastic liners, bottled water, and cosmetics—release microplastic particles that enter the body through inhalation, ingestion and skin contact. Recent European research, such as the EU‑funded POLYRISK project led by Utrecht University and the PLASTICHEAL effort coordinated from Barcelona, has shown that short‑term exposure can temporarily affect the immune system, while laboratory tests reveal early signs of inflammation, DNA damage and cellular stress. Microplastics also act as carriers for pollutants, heavy metals and microbes, potentially intensifying health risks. In response, European policymakers aim to cut overall plastic pollution by 30 % by 2030, targeting both intentionally added microplastics and those generated from the breakdown of larger plastics.