Understanding Microplastic Exposure
What Are Microplastics?
Microplastics are tiny plastic particles, generally less than 5 millimeters in size. They can form as larger plastic products break down or may be manufactured at very small sizes for use in certain consumer and industrial products.
These particles have been detected throughout the environment, including in water, soil, air, and food sources. Because of their small size and widespread presence, researchers continue to study how people are exposed and what those exposures may mean for long-term health.
Inside the PlasticTox Test
PlasticTox: The World's First Human Microplastic Screen
PlasticTox is marketed as the world's first commercial human microplastic blood test. The test is designed to detect, count, size, and characterize microplastic and nanoplastic particles identified in a submitted blood sample.
Comprehensive Screening
Designed to identify microplastic particles included within the PlasticTox testing methodology and provide a detailed picture of what is detected in your blood sample.
Peer-Reviewed Testing Methodology
PlasticTox reports that its testing uses peer-reviewed methods and is processed through CLIA/COLA-certified laboratory facilities.
Detailed Particle Analysis
Results can include information about the number, size, and concentration of microplastic particles detected in your sample.
Results in Approximately 2–3 Weeks
Laboratory processing typically takes about two to three weeks, allowing you to review your individualized results once analysis is complete.
The Testing Process
How Does PlasticTox Testing Work?
PlasticTox uses a blood sample to identify and analyze microplastic particles that may be present. The laboratory then evaluates detected particles and prepares your individualized results.
Collect the Blood Sample
A small blood sample is collected for submission to the laboratory for PlasticTox analysis.
Isolate & Identify Plastic Particles
The laboratory processes the sample using its specialized methodology to isolate and identify microplastic and nanoplastic particles that are detected.
Measure the Detected Particles
Imaging and analysis are used to evaluate characteristics such as the number, size, and concentration of particles identified in the sample.
Receive Your Results
Once laboratory analysis is complete, you receive an individualized report summarizing the microplastic particles detected in your submitted sample.
Everyday Exposure
Common Ways You May Be Exposed to Microplastics
Microplastics are widespread in the environment, and exposure can occur through several everyday pathways including food, contact with plastic-containing materials, and particles present in the air.
01 / Eat & Drink
Food & Water
Microplastics have been detected in food and drinking water. Potential sources include seafood, packaged foods, bottled water, and environmental contamination that enters the food chain.
02 / Touch
Everyday Materials
Synthetic fabrics, plastic-containing products, and other everyday materials can shed tiny particles and microfibers into the surrounding environment during normal use and wear.
03 / Breathe
Airborne Particles
Microplastic particles and synthetic fibers can become airborne as larger materials break down, creating another potential route of everyday environmental exposure.