A new study suggests that microbes found in certain fermented foods may play an unexpected role inside the human body. Researchers identified a specific bacterium commonly found in foods like kimchi that can bind to tiny plastic particles in the gut and help carry them out of the body.
In laboratory simulations and animal studies, the bacteria showed a strong ability to attach to nanoplastics — microscopic fragments that people can ingest through food, water, and air. Mice given the bacteria excreted significantly more plastic particles, suggesting the microbes may help prevent some of these particles from being absorbed into the body.
While the findings are early and human studies are still needed, researchers say this opens the door to a new way of addressing microplastic exposure. Instead of focusing only on environmental cleanup, scientists are beginning to explore whether certain foods — or the microbes within them — could help reduce how much plastic stays inside the body.
SOURCE:
Earth, March 29, 2026