Microplastic found in human fecal matter, study says

“Microplastic” or small pieces of plastic have recently been discovered in human fecal matter. Though the study is new, the health risks posed by plastic in the human body remain unknown.

Searching for gold? You might find some luck in your stool. “Microplastics” are sesame seed-sized fragments of plastics, and often hang out in tap water, salt, shellfish, and even the air. (Oregon State University/Smithsonian Magazine)

In a new study from Medical University of Vienna, tiny bits of plastic were found in the fecal matter of eight participants. The participants kept a diary of food and drink intake for a week. Microplastics, small plastic fragments, will surprise you; they are found in water, bottle containers, salt, and oddly, fleece jackets.

Reporter: Laurie Maemura