New research challenges the common belief that glass is always safer. For a long time, people believed that glass bottles were a safer and more eco-friendly option than plastic. But a new study from France’s food safety agency ANSES has found something surprising: glass bottles may contain more microplastics than plastic bottles.
What the Study Found
Researchers tested drinks such as water, soda, lemonade, iced tea, beer, and wine, sold in various types of containers. They found that:
- Glass bottles had up to 100 microplastic particles per litre, sometimes 50 times more than plastic or metal bottles.
- Beer bottles had the most microplastics, followed by lemonade.
- Surprisingly, flat and sparkling water had the lowest amounts, with glass bottles containing 4.5 particles per litre, while plastic had just 1.6.
- Wine bottles had fewer microplastics because they are often sealed with cork stoppers, not plastic caps.
Where Are These Microplastics Coming From?
The researchers were shocked by the results. PhD student Iseline Chaib, who led the study, said they originally thought glass would be cleaner. But when they tested the particles, they found that many matched the color and material of the bottle caps.
So, the paint and plastic coating on the outside of the caps used on glass bottles are likely leaking microplastics into the drinks.
Can This Be Fixed?
The good news is.. YES!. The study found that washing the caps before use helped reduce the microplastic count. Rinsing with water, ethanol, and then water again reduced microplastics by approximately three times.
Why It Matters
This study is a wake-up call. Microplastics are tiny plastic particles smaller than 5mm and have become a global problem. They have been found everywhere, from the deepest parts of the ocean to the tops of mountains, and even inside human organs.
Plastic production has exploded from 1.5 million tonnes in the 1950s to over 400 million tonnes in 2022. With an increasing amount of plastic waste, microplastics are now being found in more places than ever.
Final Thoughts
This research shows that even packaging we think is safe may have hidden risks. While glass still has many environmental benefits, it’s important to pay attention to the materials used in bottle caps and paints.
As science learns more about microplastics, we can all be more mindful of the products we choose and how they affect both our health and the planet.
