Bioplastics, often touted as the eco-pleasant successor to traditional petroleum-based plastics, may not be as benign as once believed. New research suggests that starch-based bioplastics, commonly derived from plant sources like corn starch, rice starch, or sugar, could pose similar health risks to their petroleum-based counterparts.

The Promise and the Problem

Bioplastics have gained popularity due to their perceived sustainability and faster decomposition rates compared to conventional plastics. they are widely used in various products, including fast fashion clothing, wet wipes, straws, and cutlery. Though, this widespread adoption is now being questioned.

Concerning Findings: Health Impacts Unveiled

A recent peer-reviewed study has raised significant concerns about the long-term effects of bioplastic exposure. The research revealed a range of adverse health outcomes in mice, including:

• Organ damage
• Metabolic changes
• Gut microbe imbalances, potentially leading to cardiovascular disease
• Altered glucose levels

The study’s authors emphasize that their work is the first to confirm adverse effects of long-term exposure in a controlled animal model.

Expert Insights

Yongfeng Deng,a co-author of the study,expressed concern about the findings.

Biodegradable starch-based plastics may not be as safe and health-promoting as originally assumed. This is notably concerning given their potential for accidental ingestion.
Yongfeng Deng, Study Co-Author

The Toxic Reality of Plastics

Traditional plastics are known to be toxic, often containing over 16,000 chemicals, many of which lack thorough toxicological profiles. Common plasticizers like phthalates and bisphenol are among the most hazardous, linked to health issues ranging from cancer to hormone disruption.

Bioplastics: Not a Perfect Solution

While bioplastics were initially seen as a safer alternative, previous research has indicated that they don’t break down as quickly as claimed. Despite limited research on their toxicity, bioplastic production has surged. Industry estimates suggest that nearly 2.5 million metric tons were used last year, with projections indicating a doubling of this figure in the next five years.

Microplastics: A Shared Problem

like petroleum-based plastics, bioplastics also break down into microplastics. These tiny particles can be released from clothing during washing and contaminate food and water sources.

Study Details: Exposing Mice to Bioplastics

In the recent study,researchers fed mice food and water contaminated with “environmentally relevant” levels of bioplastics for three months. The results were compared to a control group that received no bioplastics.

Key Findings: Similar Health Problems

the study revealed that exposure to plant-based plastics led to many of the same health problems associated with petroleum-based plastics. Chemicals from the bioplastics were found in the mice’s livers, ovaries, and intestines, causing microlesions. Researchers also observed abnormalities in these organs, with higher bioplastic concentrations leading to more severe effects. Moreover, the material affected genetic pathways and caused imbalances in gut microbiota, potentially disrupting circadian rhythms.

Call for Further Research and caution

The authors emphasize the need for more research to fully understand the implications of bioplastic exposure. The findings raise critical questions about the safety of these materials, which are increasingly prevalent in everyday life. Some experts recommend reducing plastic exposure in daily items like kitchenware and clothing,despite the challenges of avoiding them entirely.