A recent scientific study has revealed that starch-based bioplastics, often praised as eco-friendly alternatives to traditional plastics, could be just as harmful to health. The research, conducted over several months, found that these bioplastics may cause damage to vital organs and disrupt normal bodily functions.
Bioplastics are made from natural materials, such as corn or rice starch, and are commonly used in products like wet wipes, straws, and disposable cutlery. They have been marketed as biodegradable and safer for the environment compared to petroleum-based plastics. However, the study found that long-term exposure to these materials can lead to various health issues, including liver and ovarian damage, metabolic changes, and imbalances in gut bacteria, which in turn increase the risk of heart disease.
The experiment involved feeding mice with food and water containing levels of bioplastics similar to what humans might encounter in everyday life. The plastic chemicals were detected in the animals’ tissues, causing small lesions and other abnormalities. The researchers warn that this raises serious questions about the safety of bioplastics, primarily because they can be accidentally ingested.
Plastic pollution remains a significant health concern worldwide. While bioplastics were thought to be a better option, evidence now suggests they also break down into tiny microplastics that can enter the food chain. Despite increasing production, which reached nearly 2.5 million metric tonnes last year and is expected to grow rapidly, there remains a limited understanding of the long-term health impacts of bioplastics. Experts call for more studies and urge people to reduce their exposure to all types of plastics, including those considered “green,” due to potential health risks.
This discovery challenges the notion that plant-based plastics are entirely safe, underscoring the need for caution in their use.
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