• A recent mouse study suggests that polyethylene, a major source of microplastics that was thought to be biologically inert, may increase the risk of liver disease or worsen an existing liver condition.
  • The research found that exposure to polyethylene affected liver metabolism in mice by altering genes involved in tissue repair and damage response. 
  • However, these findings do not yet confirm that polyethylene directly causes liver damage in humans.
  • To minimize microplastic exposure, experts recommend avoiding heating food in plastic containers, using glass or stainless steel for food storage, among many other steps.