It's confirmed: bottled water represents a real health hazard in plastic.
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A whole recent study published in the American magazine Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) has not only confirmed what we already knew, namely that the presence of plastic particles in bottled waterBut it also revealed an even more worrying reality: there are allegedly much more than expected!
Finally, a decisive argument against the widely-held belief that it is a healthier option thantap water ?
An alarming discovery
Researchers at Columbia University and Rutgers University have discovered alarming levels of plastic contamination in bottled water. Their analysis of samples from popular brands revealed that one litre can contain between 110,000 and 400,000 plastic particleswith an average of 240,000 - the majority being nanoplastics. These results are between 10 and 100 times higher than previous estimates !
Nanoplastics vs. Microplastics
Studies differentiate between microplastics (larger particles) from nanoplastics (extremely fine particles). If the size of microplastics is less than 5mmfor nanoplastics is less than one micron (1 millionth of a metre). For reference, a human hair measures 70 microns in diameter on average.
This new study, using cutting-edge analysis techniques, found that bottled water contains 10 to 100 times more nanoplastics than microplastics. Even if their presence was suspected, this study means that we now know more precisely how much of them there are.
The nanoplasticsBecause of their small size, they can potentially penetrate more easily into the human bodyasking unknown health risks.
Sources of plastic particles in bottled water
A large part of the plastic contamination seems to come from the bottles themselves and from the production processes. water purificationsuch asreverse osmosis used by bottling companies.
Read also : What is a water osmosis unit used for?
Another study published in the journal Frontiers in Chemistry found that 93 % of bottled water samples from different countries showed signs of microplastic contamination, with levels of twice that of tap water tested worldwide.
Health and environmental concerns
These discoveries raise serious questions about the security consumption ofbottled waterespecially given the potential for these plastics to enter the food chain. human blood system and accumulate in the bodies.
Indeed, the nanoplastics represent particles, if smallthat they can pass through the digestive system and lungsenter the bloodstream directly and, from there, the organs, particularly the liver. brain and the heartas well as crossing the placenta. Some studies have already shown harmful effects, for example on reproductive system.
L'environmental impact is also significant, as the production and discarding of plastic bottles contributes to pollution and poses challenges for the environment. waste management.
The revelation of presence of plastic particles in bottled water in greater numbers than expected is calling into question even more deeply the perception of its purity and safety. For if consumers were prepared to pay for water that costs between 100 and 300 times more than tap water, it was particularly due to the belief that it was better for your health!
Consumers are encouraged to consider health implications and environmental of their choices. As research into the effects of these particles continues, it highlights the need for more sustainable and safer water consumption.
A step towards a healthier, less expensive solution: LaVie Purifiers
Faced with these disturbing revelationsAs a result, we need to rethink the way we consume water on a daily basis. Visit LaVie purifiers offer an alternative innovative and ecological.
Using the UV-A purification technologyLaVie purifiers eliminate contaminants and ensure high quality waterdirectly from your tap. Remember thattap water may also contain plastic particles, but in much lower concentrations than in bottled water!
Not only does this solution reduces your ecological footprint by eliminating the need for plastic bottles, but it also guarantees a high level of safety. clean water and pure for you and your family.
Take the first step towards a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle with LaVie. Visit our tap water purifier shop to find out more and join the movement towards a plastic-free future.
Article written on 09/01/2023 by Pascal Nuti - CIO Solable - Passionate about energy, I'm constantly on the lookout for new targets for improvement, exploring cross-disciplinary paths using novel methods.
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