Cheese, originally a Western food, has now become familiar to many Vietnamese people. It’s added to various dishes such as pizza, spaghetti, hamburgers, etc., providing a rich, creamy flavor that has made it especially popular among Vietnamese youth. However, a recent study published in NPJ Science of Food has revealed that cheese may contain high levels of microplastics.

Cheese Contains a Large Amount of Microplastics

Scientists purchased various types of cheese, including 10 with a shelf life of less than one month and 14 with a shelf life of over four months, from retail stores in Italy, according to the Daily Mail.

Analysis showed that cheese with a shelf life of over four months had the highest microplastic contamination, with 1,857 microplastic particles per kilogram of cheese—about 45 times higher than the amount found in bottled water.

In cheese with a shorter shelf life (under one month), the analysis still found up to 1,280 microplastic particles per kilogram.

Cheese goes through multiple stages before reaching consumers—pre-processing, production, storage, and packaging. Experts believe microplastics can infiltrate cheese at various points, from ingredients stored in plastic containers to finished products wrapped in plastic film or stored in plastic bags.

Researchers now assess that microplastics are present in almost every stage of the food supply chain. They’ve been found in many different types of foods, including meat, fish, seafood, honey, bottled water, beer, chewing gum, tea bags, and milk. And now, cheese has been added to the list—with unexpectedly high levels.

The microplastics found in cheese are very small. Over one-third measured between 50–100 micrometers, and about one-fifth were even smaller—under 50 micrometers. At this size, microplastics can easily pass through cell membranes and enter the human body during digestion.

Currently, researchers are also investigating the health impacts of microplastics on humans, and evidence is mounting that they may pose serious health risks.

In rodent studies, exposure to high levels of microplastics has caused damage to organs including the intestines, lungs, liver, and reproductive system.

Studies on humans have also suggested potential links between microplastic exposure and cardiovascular disease and colon cancer.

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How to Reduce Microplastic Exposure

Experts recommend limiting plastic use as the best way to reduce microplastic exposure. Here are some suggestions:

• Use glass or stainless steel bottles, ceramic or glass food containers instead of paper cups, plastic cups, or plastic boxes.

• When shopping, bring reusable fabric bags or containers instead of single-use plastic bags or takeout boxes.

• Food manufacturers and government agencies should also take action to reduce plastic usage in production processes, helping to limit microplastic contamination in food and beverages.

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While cheese continues to be a tasty and popular food, this research serves as an important reminder to be mindful of what may be hidden in the foods we consume.