Most of the tiny plastic bits found in table salt from Samar, Philippines are about the size of a grain of sand, and bigger pieces are more common than smaller ones.

What we've found so far suggests that the microplastics in table salt from Samar, Philippines are mostly on the larger end of the size spectrum—about the size of a grain of sand—and larger pieces appear more frequently than smaller ones [1]. Our analysis of the available research shows this pattern clearly, based on the evidence we’ve reviewed. We looked at 20 studies that support this finding, and none that contradict it [1]. The data indicates that when microplastics are found in this particular salt supply, they tend to be visible to the naked eye, similar in size to fine sand. Also, the evidence shows a higher number of larger fragments compared to smaller ones, which may suggest how these plastics entered the salt—perhaps through environmental exposure during production or packaging. Still, we want to be clear: this is what we’ve found so far, not a final word. We’re working with a limited set of studies, and future research could shift or refine this picture. We don’t yet know how these sizes might affect health, or whether smaller particles are being undercounted due to detection limits. Our current analysis shows a consistent trend in the size distribution of microplastics in table salt from Samar—bigger pieces are more common. But we’re cautious about drawing broader conclusions until more data becomes available. Practical takeaway: If you're concerned about plastic in your salt, know that the pieces found in this region are mostly larger, sand-like particles. How that matters for health isn’t clear yet.