Scientists are pushing back on warnings that microplastics damage your health, saying people are just obese and calling some studies ‘a joke’

Fortune

by Catherina Gioino

February 24, 2026

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Scientists are questioning claims that microplastics pose serious health risks to humans, with some calling recent studies "a joke." A growing number of researchers argue that findings suggesting micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) have infiltrated human organs, such as the brain or testes, may be flawed due to methodological errors and false positives. These critics claim that techniques like Py-GC-MS, used to identify plastic particles in tissues, are prone to contamination from human fat, which can mimic plastic signals. The controversy gained traction after high-profile studies suggested alarming levels of microplastics in human bodies, including one claiming the average brain contains the equivalent weight of a plastic spoon in MNPs. However, experts like Dusan Materic and Roger Kuhlman have criticized these claims, arguing they lack sufficient evidence and are often biologically implausible. For instance, Cassandra Rauert highlighted that particles larger than 3-30 micrometers are unlikely to cross biological barriers, casting doubt on the notion of widespread plastic accumulation in internal organs. The debate has significant implications for business and public perception. If microplastics are found to be less harmful than previously claimed, industries like food packaging, textiles, and personal care products could face fewer regulations or lawsuits. However, critics warn that sensationalized findings have already fueled demand for expensive, unproven "detox" treatments claiming to remove plastics from the bloodstream for thousands of dollars. Ultimately, while most researchers agree microplastics are likely present in human bodies, they emphasize the need for more rigorous studies. Until then, the field remains "super-immature," with rushed research potentially leading to unnecessary fear and economic impacts. Businesses and consumers should remain cautious about claims linking microplastics to health risks until conclusive evidence emerges.

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Originally published on Fortune on 2/24/2026