Plastic tableware use linked to microplastics in semen

In short:

• Microplastics were detected in 55% of semen samples from 200 men of reproductive age in Chongqing, China.
• Polystyrene and polyvinyl chloride, plastics commonly used in disposable tableware, each accounted for over 30% of the microplastics found.
• In addition to having higher concentrations of microplastics in their semen, men who used plastic tableware more frequently also had lower sperm counts.
• An accompanying animal study similarly found a link between increased microplastic exposure and lower sperm count, as well as reduced sperm motility and an increase in malformed sperm.

Key quote:

“Collectively, this study provides direct human evidence that microplastic accumulation in semen is associated with impaired sperm quality, particularly in individuals with certain lifestyle factors such as frequent plastic tableware use.”

Why this matters:

Recent studies have confirmed that microplastics are present in all parts of the human body that have been examined. Dietary intake is considered to be a major source of microplastic exposure, with studies estimating that Americans ingest over 50,000 microplastic particles yearly. This study along with other recent findings on microplastics’ associations with negative impacts on fertility highlight the urgent need for additional research to better understand the full scope of plastic pollution’s harm to public health.

Related EHN coverage:

• Microplastic exposure linked to reduced sperm quality in humans
• Microplastics continue to be found throughout human reproductive system, including the uterus
• No plastic cutting boards should be considered entirely safe, scientists say

More resources: Environmental Working Group offers several consumer guides to help empower shoppers to buy products without toxic chemicals, including guides for cookware and food containers and advice on how to reduce microplastic exposure.