A supplement made from dead bacteria reduced microplastic particles in saliva during an initial human test. The postbiotic, called Qi601, attracted plastics to its rough surfaces in lab experiments and one participant's mouth. Researchers say it could limit absorption but note the findings are preliminary.
The product was developed by Quorum Innovations in Florida using cell walls from the bacterium Limosilactobacillus fermentum. In tests with fluids mimicking the digestive system, up to 92 percent of nanoplastics bound to the postbiotic.
When added to human intestinal-like cells exposed to nanoplastics, the supplement reduced visible particles inside and on the cells. In cells already containing nanoplastics after 24 hours, it cut the number by 43 percent.
In the human trial, one participant chewed gum to release microplastics into saliva. Analysis showed 2152 free plastic particles without the supplement and 185 with 10 milligrams of Qi601 added.
Eva Berkes, co-founder of the company, said the results mark the first demonstration of microplastics being bound by a mitigant in people. Martin Wagner of the Norwegian University of Science and Technology noted that the approach would not address inhaled particles or ongoing exposure.