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Deciphering potential implications of dietary microplastics for human health

A new report from the World Health Organization has evaluated the risks of dietary exposure to nanoplastic and microplastic particles (NMPs) to human health. Although challenges in the detection of NMPs in food and beverages remain, it is clear that humans are being exposed. Presently, no convincing evidence of adverse health effects are found, but major knowledge gaps remain.

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Acknowledgements

The authors thank B. Koelmans (Wageningen University, Wageningen) and V. Janmaat (Erasmus University, Rotterdam) for stimulating discussions.

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Correspondence to Luc J. W. van der Laan.

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van der Laan, L.J.W., Bosker, T. & Peijnenburg, W.J.G.M. Deciphering potential implications of dietary microplastics for human health. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 20, 340–341 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41575-022-00734-3

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