Tiny particles of plastic, called microplastic - a major source of pollution - have been detected in the human blood for the first time. It was detected in nearly 80 per cent of samples tested by a group of researchers from the Netherlands.
The discovery is extremely significant as it shows that microplastic can travel around the body and may lodge in organs. Though the scientists are not yet aware of the long term impact of these particles on health, but are concerned due to already rising pollution levels across the globe.
Microplastics are tiny pieces of plastic less than 0.2 of an inch (5mm) in diametre.
Half of these samples had PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate), which is used to make drinks bottles. Polystyrene, widely used in food packaging, was found in 36 per cent and polyethylene, used in packaging films and bags, was found in 23 per cent of samples, according to the research.
The discovery is extremely significant as it shows that microplastic can travel around the body and may lodge in organs. Though the scientists are not yet aware of the long term impact of these particles on health, but are concerned due to already rising pollution levels across the globe.
Microplastics are tiny pieces of plastic less than 0.2 of an inch (5mm) in diametre.
Half of these samples had PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate), which is used to make drinks bottles. Polystyrene, widely used in food packaging, was found in 36 per cent and polyethylene, used in packaging films and bags, was found in 23 per cent of samples, according to the research.