This is 10-100 times more than the previous estimates, which mostly concentrated on larger-sized plastics. The American study was carried out by a group of experts from Columbia University and was published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
After testing three well-known US brands of bottled water, they discovered that each litre included between 1.1 lakh and 3.7 lakh particles, with 90% of the plastics being nanoplastics and the remaining 10% being microplastics.
Source: Metro Vaartha
Microplastics are defined as minuscule, imperceptible particles that are smaller than one micrometre. Their sizes vary from one micrometre, or one millionth of a metre, to five millimetres. Scientists believe that because nanoplastics are far more numerous than microplastics and can penetrate the bloodstream, heart, brain, and lungs, they may be more dangerous.
They may also result in cellular imbalance, intestinal inflammation, and metabolic problems. The research holds great significance for Indian customers, as a UN report states that the nation experienced the second-fastest growth rate in the mineral water market over a three-year period (2018–21), following South Korea. In terms of the amount of bottled water consumed in 2021, India ranked 14th in the globe.
Source: KTLA 5
The quality of packaged water supplied in India is being questioned, and in addition, the plastics used to make the bottles—typically polyethylene terephthalate—are currently being scrutinised. To guarantee that the bottled water sector upholds high safety standards, a strong regulatory framework is essential.
Encouragement of the use of substitutes, such as glass or stainless steel bottles, cardboard cartons, and even aluminium cans, is also necessary. The containers’ ability to be recycled ought to be the main focus. The planet’s overall health as well as that of humankind are at risk.
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