A recent study has found that boiling water and filtering it can significantly reduce the amount of microplastics present. Microplastics, which are minute bits of plastic measuring as small as one-thousandth of a millimeter in diameter, have been detected in various products and even tap water.
The study, published in Environmental Science & Technology Letters, revealed that boiling mineral-rich water for just five minutes can decrease exposure to microplastics by up to 90%. This finding is important as scientists are still uncovering the potential health risks linked to microplastic exposure.
Microplastics, such as polystyrene, polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyethylene terephthalate, are commonly found in groundwater and surface water due to factors like wastewater and surface runoff after rainfall. The ingestion and inhalation of microplastics have been shown to impair cell function, trigger inflammation, and cause oxidative stress.
Traditional water treatment plants are unable to eliminate microplastics from drinking water, and advanced systems that can capture these tiny plastic particles are not readily available in developing countries. Boiling water is suggested as a simple and effective method to remove microplastics from tap water, particularly in areas where clean water solutions are limited.
It is essential to note that boiling water is not a foolproof solution, as individuals are likely exposed to microplastics from various sources. Additional research is needed to determine the best practices for reducing microplastic exposure. In the meantime, experts recommend avoiding single-use plastic products and utensils to minimize the intake of microplastics.