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  • Recent research reveals that chewing gum can release a significant number of microplastic particles per gram.
  • Microplastics were identified in both artificial and organic gum varieties.
  • The long-term health implications of microplastic exposure are still being explored, with early evidence indicating potential risks.

When you chew gum, hundreds to thousands of microplastic particles can be released into your mouth.

The findings were shared at the American Chemical Society’s spring event in San Diego, California, indicating that approximately 100 microplastics are liberated per gram of gum chewed. This study is awaiting peer review publication.

“The aim is not to create panic,” stated Sanjay Mohanty, PhD, lead researcher and a professor of engineering at UCLA, during a press briefing.

“The safety of microplastics for humans has not yet been confirmed as there have been no clinical trials. However, we are aware of the prevalence of plastics in our daily lives, which motivated our research,” he explained.

Previous studies estimate that people may ingest between 39,000 to 52,000 microplastic particles annually.

Microplastics are ubiquitous and can be ingested through various means such as beverages, foods, plastic containers, kitchen tools, and during the production of consumer goods.

Chewing gum has been under-researched in terms of its association with microplastics.

“Our lab primarily investigates microplastic movement through water and soil. We’ve learned that microplastics can enter the body through ingestion and inhalation,” Mohanty shared with Healthline.

“Most studies about food ingestion focus on microplastics originating from plastic containers like water bottles and tea bags. However, chewing gum is unique because it’s composed of plastics, which many people are unaware of. It’s vital to assess the microplastic content in gum to understand the full scope of human exposure and potential health impacts,” he added.

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Exposure to Microplastics Through Chewing Gum

Chewing gum is composed of flavorings, sweeteners, and a rubbery base among other ingredients.

“Natural” gums use plant-based polymers like tree sap for elasticity, while synthetic gums utilize petroleum-based polymers.

The study examined five types of both synthetic and natural gums available commercially.

In the experiment, one individual chewed seven pieces of each gum type to reflect different chewing habits and saliva production.

The participant chewed each gum for four minutes, providing saliva samples every 30 seconds before rinsing with water. These samples were then pooled together.

In a separate test, saliva samples were taken every 20 minutes.

Analysis showed that both synthetic and natural gums released microplastics into the saliva.

“Finding microplastics in gum wasn’t surprising, but the equal amounts in both synthetic and natural types were unexpected. We’re puzzled about how natural gums are picking up microplastics,” Mohanty remarked.

Microplastics in Both Synthetic and Natural Chewing Gums

On average, each gram of gum released about 100 microplastic particles.

Some gum samples yielded up to 600 microplastics per gram, with most pieces weighing between 2 to 6 grams.

Both gum types were found to contain similar polymers, primarily polyolefins which include materials like polyethylene and polypropylene.

Tracey Woodruff, PhD, a UCSF professor not involved in the study, noted, “It’s not shocking that microplastics are found in so many places, including chewing gum which is often in our mouths for extended periods.”

“This just adds to the broader issue of widespread microplastic exposure that we’re already facing,” she added.

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Understanding the Health Risks of Microplastics

The potential health impacts of microplastics are the focus of ongoing scientific research.

A 2024 review suggested possible links between microplastics and several health issues, including respiratory, digestive, and reproductive disorders, and possibly even colon and lung cancer.

Dana Hunnes, a senior dietitian at UCLA Health, expressed her surprise at the findings, noting the unexpected source of microplastics in chewing gum.

“Most people are likely ingesting these particles without realizing, as they tend to swallow saliva while chewing gum,” Hunnes commented.

Considering Whether to Continue Chewing Gum

Hunnes suggested that some individuals might choose to quit or reduce their chewing gum consumption.

“Given that both natural and synthetic gums release similar levels of microplastics, it might not matter which type you chew. Reducing or stopping might be wise, especially for children whose developing brains could be vulnerable to chemical damage,” she advised.

Woodruff, echoing the sentiment, stated, “Chewing gum is a personal choice, but I prefer to avoid it.”

“The more you chew, the more microplastics you’re likely exposing yourself to, on top of the already prevalent exposure from other sources,” she concluded.