Are we exaggerating the threat? Are we facing an inevitable crisis? And what insights have scientists truly uncovered?

The pressing issue isn’t just the presence of microplastics in our bodies, according to Rauert, but rather the quantity and potential risks they pose. This dilemma is compounded by the complexities involved in accurately measuring microplastics.

“We lack a clear understanding of our exposure levels to microplastics,” she stated.

“This is a crucial factor that must be integrated into ongoing research studies,” she emphasized.

Without clear data on our exposure, it remains difficult to link any health impacts directly to microplastics.

Rauert describes the study of microplastics as “an emerging analytical field” that is advancing rapidly, perhaps too rapidly. She suggests that scientists need to pause and critically assess the findings being reported.

Until we know how much we’re exposed to, we can’t know whether any health effects are directly connected.

What can we say about the effects microplastics are having on our bodies?

She describes it as “a very young analytical field” that’s “progressing very quickly, perhaps a little too quickly,” adding that scientists “need to take a step back and look at what’s actually being reported”.

The global health view

But the WHO has taken an increasingly precautionary stance.

Activists carrying a huge banner protest on the sidelines of the Plastics Treaty negotiations at the United Nations this year, before talks failed. Source: Getty / SOPA Images/LightRocket

In a statement to the Feed, it said it “recognises growing scientific evidence that the release of micro- and nano-plastics across the life cycle of plastics poses potential health risks.”

Rauert agrees that while microplastics themselves are still being studied, the chemicals they contain are a known concern.

A plastic water bottle left in the sun can heat up, allowing some of the chemicals used in the plastic’s production to potentially leach into the water inside. Source: Getty / Houston Chronicle/Hearst Newspaper

“Additive chemicals are added during manufacturing, or plastics can pick up chemicals in the environment. So when you’re exposed to these plastics, you’re exposed to these chemicals as well,” she said.

But even here, experts warn against jumping to conclusions.

Food Standards Australia New Zealand currently states that small amounts of microplastics in food and drink are unlikely to harm human health. Source: Bloomberg / Getty Images

As for viral claims that microwaving food in plastic causes infertility, Rauert urged caution. “I think having a direct link between microwaving your food and that affecting your fertility — that we don’t know as yet,” she said.

That’s why, he explains, certain products are labelled “microwave-safe”.

What should I do?

Experts say there are small, reasonable ways to cut down your personal exposure:

• Don’t overheat plastic containers. If it’s not labelled microwave-safe, use glass or ceramic instead.
• Avoid leaving plastic water bottles in hot cars or direct sunlight.
• Vent your clothes dryer outdoors — synthetic fabrics shed plastic microfibres into the air.
• Choose reusable materials like metal drink bottles, wooden utensils, or glass storage jars where practical.

For now, the consensus is cautious: there’s growing evidence of risk, but not yet proof of harm. The advice from health agencies is to reduce exposure where possible — not out of panic, but precaution.