IBWA Response to Columbia University Paper: Microplastics are chemically active, and could cause biological harm

IBWA Response to Columbia University Paper: Microplastics are chemically active, and could cause biological harm

Bottled water remains a safe, wholesome, and essential component of healthy hydration, and premature leaps from theoretical bench chemistry to alarmist conclusions do a disservice to consumers. Real science follows data to a conclusion. This agenda-driven research starts with a political premise-that everyday plastics are inherently toxic-and then manufactures theoretical mechanisms to fit the narrative while ignoring actual regulatory data. This study does not measure actual human biological impact; it relies on computer modeling, chemical simulations, and in-vitro test-tube environments designed to force a predetermined outcome.

As the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has repeatedly noted, there is no credible scientific evidence supporting consumer health concerns regarding microplastics in foods and beverages. Bottled water is just one of thousands of food and beverage products (including soft drinks and juices) that are packaged in plastic containers. While many studies on micro- and nanoparticles have used water samples (tap and bottled), it is important to understand that researchers use water because it is the least complex testing medium. Conclusions that drinking water is a major route for oral intake of micro- and nanoplastics are not justified based on the current science available.

Furthermore, our industry goes far above and beyond standard federal requirements: bottled water is strictly regulated as a food product by the FDA under standards that must be as protective as-and in many cases exceed-EPA tap water rules, and every IBWA member is subjected to mandatory annual independent third-party plant audits and rigorous certification programs. While we fully support rigorous, standardized, and peer-reviewed science agreed upon by federal health authorities, we will continue to stand up for the facts, consumer choice, and the highest standards of product safety.

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