Chemical class · 11 polymer types tracked
Microplastics
Plastic fragments smaller than 5 millimeters, formed as larger plastics break down or shed during use. Detected across the food supply, in drinking water, and in human tissue including arterial plaque.
MICROPLASTIC_PARTICLE
Microplastics (total)
Total microplastics
Sum of microplastic particles measured in a sample without polymer-type breakdown. Reported by older studies and screening-level testing.
MICROPLASTIC_PARTICLE
Nanoplastics
Nanoplastics
Plastic particles smaller than 1 micrometer. Can cross biological membranes including the blood-brain barrier. A 2024 study found micro- and nanoplastics in human arterial plaque a…
CAS 9002-88-4
PE
Polyethylene
Most-produced plastic worldwide. Used in plastic bags, bottles, and food packaging. The most commonly detected microplastic polymer in food.
CAS 25038-59-9
PET
Polyethylene terephthalate
Used in plastic water and soda bottles, polyester textiles, and food trays. Frequently detected in bottled water testing.
CAS 9003-07-0
PP
Polypropylene
Used in yogurt containers, microwavable food containers, and tea bags. A 2019 study found polypropylene tea bags release billions of particles into hot water.
CAS 9003-53-6
PS
Polystyrene
Used in disposable cups, takeout containers, and meat trays. Found stuck to the surface of packaged meat at 4 to 19 particles per kilogram.
CAS 9002-84-0
PTFE
Polytetrafluoroethylene
Brand-named Teflon. Used in non-stick cookware. When overheated (above 370 C), can generate PFAS compounds. Scratched non-stick cookware can release particles into food.
CAS 9002-86-2
PVC
Polyvinyl chloride
Used in cling film, food packaging, and pipes. PVC plastics often contain phthalate plasticizers, which leach into food.
CAS 63428-83-1
PA
Polyamide
Brand-named Nylon. Used in food packaging films, kitchen utensils, and textiles. Common microplastic fiber in food samples.
CAS 25037-45-0
PC
Polycarbonate
Used in reusable water bottles and food-contact plastics. Made from BPA, which can leach as the polymer degrades.
CAS 9009-54-5
PU
Polyurethane
Used in foam packaging, sealants, and some food-contact applications. Detected in microplastic studies of food and water.