A study in the Journal of Nanobiotechnology found microplastics in the semen of more than half of 200 men tested, with polystyrene and PVC the most common types. Frequent use of disposable plastic tableware correlated with higher particle levels. In mice, exposure to similar particles led to lower sperm counts, reduced motility and testicular cell damage linked to programmed cell death. The research raises concerns about plastics' potential effects on human reproductive health, though causation in people is not yet proven.
Hidden hazard at the dinner table: Microplastics found in semen and linked to sperm damage
A study in the Journal of Nanobiotechnology found microplastics in the semen of more than half of 200 men tested, with polystyrene and PVC the most common types. Frequent use of disposable plastic tableware correlated with higher particle levels. In mice, exposure to similar particles led to lower sperm counts, reduced motility and testicular cell damage linked to programmed cell death. The research raises concerns about plastics' potential effects on human reproductive health, though causation in people is not yet proven.
01:45 PM, 11/16/2025Health
Hidden tableware plastics turn up in human semen, study finds
Disposable plastic plates, cups and takeout containers that make cleanup easy may carry an unseen risk. A new study published in the Journal of Nanobiotechnology, reported by News Medical & Life Sciences, detected tiny plastic fragments — microplastics — in an unexpected place: human semen.
Researchers in China analyzed semen samples from 200 men and found microplastics in more than half of the samples. The most common materials identified were polystyrene and polyvinyl chloride (PVC), both frequently used in everyday tableware. Men who reported more frequent use of disposable plastic dishes tended to have higher concentrations of these particles.
To explore potential biological effects, scientists exposed mice to very small plastic particles of the same types detected in people. The animal experiments produced concerning results: exposed mice showed lower sperm counts, reduced sperm motility, and testicular tissue changes consistent with cellular stress and damage. The researchers described a biological cascade that included increased markers of programmed cell death (often described as cellular "self‑destruction") and tissue loss.
Important caveat: The human data are observational, and detection of microplastics in semen does not by itself prove that plastics caused fertility problems in the men studied. The mouse experiments demonstrate biologically plausible harms but cannot fully replicate human exposures. More research is needed to confirm causation, understand exposure routes and assess risk levels for people.
Even so, the findings strengthen concerns that plastic pollution can affect human health as well as the environment. If tiny plastic fragments can enter the body and interfere with reproductive processes, the implications are especially troubling for communities already facing fertility challenges.
Practical steps to reduce exposure include choosing glass, stainless steel or ceramic tableware instead of single‑use plastics, avoiding heating food in plastic containers, and supporting policies and product designs that limit microplastic release from packaging. As studies continue, modest changes in how we store and heat food could help reduce long‑term, unseen exposures.
Bottom line: This study adds to evidence that everyday plastic use can have biological effects. It highlights the need for further human research and sensible precautions now — especially for people concerned about reproductive health.