Microplastics have been found in everyday foods and drinks like meat, fish, fruits, veggies, milk, oil, salt, and water — meaning we might be eating tiny plastic bits without knowing it.

What we've found so far is that microplastics have been detected in a range of common food and drink items. Our analysis of the available research shows this is supported by 20.0 studies or assertions, with no studies found that refute it [1]. We looked at the evidence and found consistent reports of microplastics in everyday items like meat, fish, fruits, vegetables, milk, cooking oil, salt, and water [1]. These tiny plastic particles are small enough that we can’t see them, and they appear to be present in both fresh and processed foods, as well as in liquids we consume daily. Because these items are part of most people’s diets, it suggests that exposure to microplastics through eating and drinking is likely happening, though we don’t yet know how much people are consuming over time. Our current analysis shows the evidence leans toward the presence of microplastics in common foods and drinks, but we don’t have enough information to say how this might affect health. The studies we reviewed focused on detection — not on the effects of long-term exposure or how the body processes these particles. We don’t yet know how microplastics get into these foods. They might enter through environmental pollution, packaging, or during processing. What we can say is that based on what we've reviewed so far, it’s reasonable to think that tiny plastic particles are more widespread in the food supply than previously assumed. This is still an evolving area of research. As more data becomes available, our understanding will improve. Practical takeaway: Microplastics have been found in many everyday foods and drinks, so it’s likely we’re exposed through our diets — but we don’t yet know what that means for our health.