Concerns Over Microplastic Detection in Human Body Studies
Recent high-profile studies reporting the presence of microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) throughout the human body are facing scrutiny from scientists. Critics suggest that many discoveries may result from contamination and false positives due to limitations in current analytical techniques.
Methodological Challenges Highlighted
Micro and nanoplastic particles are extremely small, posing significant challenges for analysis, especially in human tissue samples. Researchers indicate that a competitive environment for publishing results, sometimes involving groups with limited analytical expertise, may have led to rushed studies and overlooked scientific checks.
Seven specific studies have been formally challenged by researchers publishing criticisms in scientific journals. An analysis further identified 18 studies that reportedly failed to account for human tissue producing measurements easily confused with signals from common plastics.
Criticisms of Key Studies
- Brain Microplastic Study: A February study claiming rising MNP levels in human brain tissue between 1997 and 2024 was challenged in November. Critics, including Dr. Dušan Materić, stated the study had