Bangladesh, Sept. 10 -- Three successive studies, conducted one by the Environment and Social Development Organisation (ESDO) and the other two by researchers of a few universities, find microplastics in toothpaste and heavy metals in commercially produced guava in Rajshahi region and processed foods respectively. The presence of microplastics in 26 of the 34 toothpaste samples ranging from 20 to 320 particles per 100 grams is shocking. What is most objectionable is that the microplasstic particles are deliberately mixed with toothpaste because those are cheaper than other contents.

Advertisement Although there is no law to limit or control such foreign ingredients in toothpaste, this is an unethical and criminal practice. The invasion ...