Is there research associating chewing gum with microplastics?

Preliminary studies have looked at whether chewing gum may release microplastic-type particles. One pilot study at the University of California, Los Angeles reported that both so-called natural and synthetic gum products released similar levels of particles. Another study conducted at Queen’s University Belfast also explored this question. However, these studies were small in scale and carried out using methods that have not been validated, which means the results cannot be considered conclusive. ICGA follows scientific developments closely and welcomes independent research that helps ensure discussions remain based on robust evidence. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), trace levels of microplastics are found across the entire food chain, including in most common food products, and in water and air. In that context, trace amounts may also be expected in chewing gum. Importantly, food safety authorities such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration have stated that “current scientific evidence does not demonstrate that levels of microplastics or nanoplastics detected in foods pose a risk to human health.” Similarly, the WHO has stated that “limited data provide little evidence that [nano- and microplastic particles] have adverse effects in humans.”