Bangkok: The discovery of microplastics in the human body, often linked to health problems, has raised significant concerns in society. However, some scientists suggest that these findings might be influenced by errors during laboratory examinations.
According to Thai News Agency, research indicates that microplastics in the body could be mistakenly identified due to laboratory practices. For instance, fat might be erroneously perceived as microplastic, especially since the brain consists of up to 60% fat. Dr. Dusan Materich from the Helmholtz Environmental Research Center in Germany pointed out that the rising obesity rates could lead to more fat in brain tissue, which might be misinterpreted as an increase in microplastics.
Laboratory contamination poses another challenge. Studies often lack sample blanks, which are crucial in determining baseline plastic contamination. This absence can lead to misleading results, as seen in research published by the New England Journal of Medicine in March 2024. The study connected microplastics in carotid artery plaques with higher cardiovascular risks, but critics argued it failed to account for plastic contamination.
Further complicating the issue, research from the University of Michigan in March 2026 highlighted that latex and nitrile gloves used in labs could introduce stearate, a compound resembling microplastics, into samples. This contamination can result in mistakenly identifying thousands of microplastic particles. The research suggests using cleanroom gloves to minimize such contamination.
While the scientific community continues to investigate, experts recommend public awareness over panic. Simple measures, such as reducing plastic-packaged food consumption and improving home ventilation, can help lower microplastic exposure without drastic lifestyle changes.