Microplastics have infiltrated nearly every corner of our environment—from the air we breathe to the water we drink. Now, a groundbreaking study suggests that chewing gum, a daily habit for millions, may be another unexpected source of these tiny plastic particles. Researchers warn that a single stick of gum could release hundreds, even thousands, of microplastics into the body, raising urgent questions about long-term health effects.
The study, conducted by scientists at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and presented at the American Chemical Society (ACS) meeting, found that both natural and synthetic chewing gums shed significant amounts of microplastics when chewed. Unlike other food products where plastic contamination comes from packaging or processing, gum itself is made from synthetic polymers—meaning the plastic is an inherent part of the product.
How Much Plastic Are You Really Chewing
To measure microplastic release, researchers tested 10 popular chewing gum brands sold in the U.S., including both natural and synthetic varieties. Participants chewed each gum for varying durations while scientists collected saliva samples. The results were startling: a single gram of gum could release up to 637 microplastics, with an average of 100 particles per stick. Given that most people chew multiple pieces daily, this could translate to tens of thousands of microplastics ingested annually.
Even more concerning, the study found that 94% of microplastics were released within the first eight minutes of chewing. This suggests that frequent gum chewers—especially those who replace their gum every few minutes—may be exposing themselves to higher doses of plastic particles.
Why Is Plastic in Gum a Problem
Microplastics, defined as plastic fragments smaller than 5 millimeters, have been detected in human blood, lungs, and even the placenta. While the full health implications remain unclear, early research links them to inflammation, cellular damage, and increased risks of chronic diseases. Studies suggest microplastics may disrupt metabolism, impair fertility, and even contribute to cardiovascular issues.
What makes gum unique is that its plastic content isn’t just contamination—it’s a core ingredient. Natural gums, often marketed as eco-friendly alternatives, still contain plant-based polymers that behave similarly to synthetic plastics. Meanwhile, conventional gum relies on petrochemical-derived materials like polyvinyl acetate (used in glue) and synthetic rubber.
Should You Quit Gum Altogether
Experts aren’t calling for a total ban on chewing gum, but they urge caution. Compared to other microplastic sources like bottled water or seafood, gum may pose a relatively small risk. However, for frequent chewers, the cumulative exposure could be significant.
To reduce intake, researchers suggest chewing each piece longer rather than frequently replacing it, since most microplastics release early. They also advise against swallowing gum, as it may linger in the digestive tract, slowly degrading into smaller particles. Proper disposal is critical too—discarded gum contributes to environmental plastic pollution, harming wildlife and ecosystems.
The Bigger Picture: Reducing Plastic Exposure
This study adds to growing evidence that microplastics are an unavoidable part of modern life. From food packaging to clothing fibers, plastics have permeated our daily routines. While eliminating them entirely may be impossible, making informed choices—like opting for plastic-free alternatives or reducing gum use—can help minimize risks.
As Dr. Lisa Patel, a Stanford pediatrician, puts it: “We’re just beginning to understand how microplastics affect our bodies. Until we know more, cutting back where we can is the wisest approach.”
For now, that might mean thinking twice before reaching for that next stick of gum.
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