What if the bottled water you drink to “take care of your health” did the opposite? Scientific research on the presence of microplastics in water seems to support this notion.
A microplastic is a tiny fragment of plastic, less than 5 millimeters. Derived from the degradation of packaging, synthetic textiles, and industrial processes, it is now massively contaminating our environment. Nanoplastics are the smallest compounds in this family, with a size of less than one micron, making them invisible to the human eye.
According to a study published in 2025, each individual ingests between 39,000 and 52,000 microplastics per year. This figure skyrockets among those who drink bottled water, with an absorption rate of up to 90,000 more than those who prefer tap water.
This is particularly concerning as these plastic particles accumulate over time in our organs, even in the brain!
Is it still possible to consume a bottle of water without microplastics?
In this guide, we help you gain clarity and identify solutions to avoid this pollution in your daily life.
What research reveals about microplastics in water
Scientists are sounding the alarm. Why? Analyses show that spring and mineral waters from several brands have become one of the main causes of exposure to microplastics.
The study by Columbia University and Rutgers University highlighted a staggering figure: a single plastic bottle of one liter can contain nearly 250,000 microplastic and nanoplastic particles. These pollutants are so small that they can cross certain natural barriers of the body, circulate in the blood, and settle in various organs.
But they do not solely originate from PET plastic. Researchers show that they are also linked to the industrial journey of the water, meaning the various stages of treatment, filtration, and preparation.
The most alarming aspect is that these fragments do not just pass through our bodies. They accumulate! In less than ten years, the amount found in the brain is reported to have increased by about 50%. Analyses conducted on human samples even indicate that microplastics in the brain are now more abundant than in the liver and kidneys, which are specialized in eliminating toxic substances.
While the exact mechanisms are still under study, several studies already suggest possible links to certain neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
A serious warning signal that invites us to rethink our hydration methods for the health of millions of consumers.
Can we find a bottle of water without microplastics?
The answer may not please you… On paper, microplastics are subject to enhanced monitoring in Europe, particularly in France through the European directive 2020/2184 on drinking water quality. But in practice, the majority of these harmful residues still go under the radar.
Research conducted by CNRS and the University of Toulouse shows that 98% of the microplastics detected in water measure less than 20 micrometers. A size not covered by the current thresholds of the European directive. What about nanoplastics, which are even smaller? In other words, most of this pollution escapes control methods.
As a result: their presence and thus their health risks are largely underestimated.
But the investigation also reminds us that the sources of water contamination are multiple.
Water can be exposed to microplastics:
- through the gradual degradation of PET plastic bottles,
- through the cap, subjected to openings, closings, and friction,
- throughout the industrial journey, including treatment and filtration stages, where certain materials, such as polyamide, fragment.
- but also upstream, via the pollution of rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
In addition, the usage conditions of consumers contribute: heat, sun exposure, prolonged storage… All factors that accelerate the release of microplastics and nanoplastics from packaging, regardless of the brands.
Researchers also indicate that mineral water contains more fragments than spring water, and that sparkling water is generally more contaminated than still water.
In short, even if concentrations may vary from one brand to another, it is currently very difficult, if not impossible, to guarantee bottled water of quality, completely free of these particles.
This reality highlights the dangers of plastic water bottles on health.
Are there microplastics in glass bottles?
One might think that glass bottles solve the problem. No plastic, therefore no degradation of the material. And yet, the figures are alarming.
A study conducted by ANSES and reported by Que Choisir revealed a surprising situation: these fragments are more numerous in glass bottles than in plastic ones.
As a result: up to 5 to 50 times more microplastics per liter have been detected in certain beverages packaged in glass.
In the case of waters, ANSES notes that contamination averages 4.5 particles per liter in glass bottles, compared to 1.6 particles in plastic ones. A difference that is far from negligible when comparing packaging that is supposed to be safer.
Where do these microplastics come from?
Suspicions fall on metal caps, and more specifically on the paint that covers them. Under the effects of friction and storage, this paint fragments and releases pieces.
The risk of pollutants is therefore never completely absent.
What is the best water to avoid microplastics?
Studies are conclusive: individuals who primarily consume bottled water (spring or mineral) ingest up to 90,000 microplastics per year, compared to about 4,000 for those who drink tap water.
Researcher Sarah Sajedi, a PhD student at Concordia University, summarizes it very clearly: “Drinking bottled plastic water is suitable in emergencies, but it is not a practice to adopt daily.”
Tap water thus appears to be more reliable for our health. It is strictly controlled, regularly analyzed, and above all, it is not constantly stored in packaging that may degrade and release chemicals.
But let’s be honest: the water in your home is not perfect either. So, how can you enjoy its benefits with peace of mind?
This is precisely where LAVIE makes a difference! With the under-sink filter Opropre, water is filtered directly at the source, even before it reaches your glass. Microparticles, PFAS, heavy metals, and other contaminants are removed, without disposable plastic and without altering essential minerals.
Result: quality water and a sustainable solution, designed for the long term.
The best water without microplastics is the one you drink at home, effectively filtered with Opropre, then purified with LAVIE technology.
