Read the full story from Trinity College Dublin.
New research shows that high levels of microplastics (MPs) are released from infant-feeding bottles (IFBs) during formula preparation. The research also indicates a strong relationship between heat and MP release, such that warmer liquids (formula or water used to sterilize bottles) result in far greater release of MPs. The work underlines the need for appropriate mitigation strategies and new plastic technologies.
Associated journal article: Dunzhu Li, Yunhong Shi, Luming Yang, Liwen Xiao, Daniel K. Kehoe, Yurii K. Gun’ko, John J. Boland, Jing Jing Wang. Microplastic release from the degradation of polypropylene feeding bottles during infant formula preparation. Nature Food, 2020; DOI: 10.1038/s43016-020-00171-y