Microplastics and nanoplastics are tiny particles of plastic debris that can enter the human body through ingestion, contact, or inhalation. According to the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), these compounds have been linked to serious health problems, such as endocrine disorders, weight gain, insulin resistance, decreased reproductive health, and even cancer. Several studies have confirmed the presence of microplastics in both freshwater and drinking water. So, how can you avoid adding microplastics to your daily water intake? Read on.
Scientists have discovered a simple but effective way to remove these harmful substances from your water: the traditional method of boiling water and then filtering it. This age-old technique is remarkably effective at reducing exposure to microplastics through drinking water.
How to Remove Microplastics from Water at Home
A team from Guangzhou Medical University and Jinan University in China conducted experiments on both soft and hard tap water. They added nanoplastics and microplastics (NMPs) to the water before boiling it and filtering out the precipitate. The researchers found that in some cases, up to 90% of the nanoplastics and microplastics were removed through the boiling and filtering process.
Interestingly, higher concentrations of these particles were extracted from hard tap water samples. Nanoplastics and microplastics are trapped in the build-up of limescale (calcium carbonate), which naturally forms after water is boiled. Even in soft water, where less calcium carbonate is present, about a quarter of the nanoplastics and microplastics were caught.
The researchers suggest that lime-covered plastic particles could be easily removed with a simple filter, such as a stainless steel mesh used to filter tea. Their findings have been published in Environmental Science & Technology Letters.
How to fix the taste of boiled water
Boiling can affect the taste of water, but there are ways to improve it. Alternating cooled, boiled water between two clean containers can introduce more air into the water, which may improve its taste. You can also let the water sit for a few hours or add a pinch of salt per quart of boiled water.
Also read: Indonesia tops the list: The shocking truth about microplastics in your food. Tips to avoid it and stay safe
Are water filters effective at removing microplastics?
Many water filters are certified to remove up to 99.6% of microplastics from tap water, as well as other contaminants such as chlorine, lead, and bacteria. Microplastics can be as small as 2.5 microns, and can be filtered using a medium smaller than 2.5 microns or even smaller.
Also read: Celebrity nutritionist asks Swiggy and Zomato to stop using plastic containers, Zomato responds
The researchers hope that the practice of boiling water before drinking will become more widespread, helping to reduce microplastic intake.
