Microplastics Found in 26 of 34 Toothpaste Brands in Bangladesh

A year-long study has found microplastics in 26 of 34 toothpaste brands sold in Bangladesh, raising concerns over potential health risks from daily oral care products.

The research, conducted by the Environment and Social Development Organization (ESDO), detected between 20 and 320 microplastic particles per 100 grams of toothpaste. The highest concentration was found in Mediplus Fluoride Gel, with 320 particles per 100 grams.

The findings were unveiled at a press conference held at ESDO's office in Lalmatia, Dhaka, on Sunday.

The study combined a nationwide survey of 2,760 consumers with laboratory analysis carried out at the Environmental Health and Ecotoxicology Laboratory of the Department of Environmental Sciences at Jahangirnagar University. Researchers used stereomicroscopy and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy to identify microplastic particles.

According to the report, microplastics were detected in 22 of 25 Bangladesh-made toothpaste brands, one of five brands manufactured in India, one of two produced in Thailand, and both brands imported from Vietnam.

Researchers also expressed concern over children's products, finding microplastics in four of the six toothpaste brands specifically marketed for children.

Among the products tested, Mediplus Fluoride Gel contained the highest level of microplastics at 320 particles per 100 grams. Other brands in which microplastics were detected included Closeup Red Hot (160 particles), Closeup Menthol Fresh (160), Kudumu Ultra Shield Formula Strawberry (140), Signal Green Tea (120), Pepsodent Advanced Salt (100), Himalaya Complete Care (100), and Sensodyne Fresh Mint (80).

Among children's toothpaste brands, Kudumu Ultra Shield Formula contained 140 particles per 100 grams, followed by Meril Baby Strawberry (60), Meril Baby Orange (40), and Pepsodent Kid Orange (20).

Not all products tested positive for microplastics. The study found no detectable microplastic particles in the locally manufactured Genfresh, Parachute Just for Baby (Mango) and Closeup Red Hot Zinc Fresh Technology toothpastes. Researchers also confirmed that the imported Kudumu Orange children's toothpaste was free of detectable microplastics.