Lactic Acid Bacteria from Kimchi Proven to Help Remove Nanoplastics from the Body

A study by the World Institute of Kimchi has demonstrated that lactic acid bacteria extracted from kimchi can bind to nanoplastics in the intestines and assist in their elimination from the body. The research team revealed that Lactobacillus mesenteroides CBA3656 showed an 87% nanoplastic absorption capacity in laboratory conditions and 57% absorption in environments simulating the human intestine. Tests conducted on germ-free mice confirmed that those receiving this bacteria had more than twice the amount of nanoplastics in their feces compared to mice that did not receive probiotics.

Kathmandu, 19 September – The World Institute of Kimchi, a government-funded research institution under the Ministry of Science and Technology, has published new findings. Lactic acid bacteria derived from kimchi aid in binding and expelling nanoplastics from the intestines. Nanoplastics are minute plastic particles smaller than 1 micrometer that result from the breakdown of larger plastic items. These particles can enter the human body through food and drinking water.

Led by Dr. Se Hee Lee and Dr. Tae Woong Won, the research team evaluated the ability of Lactobacillus mesenteroides CBA3656, isolated from kimchi, to absorb nanoplastics. Under standard laboratory conditions, the bacteria absorbed 87% of nanoplastics, retaining a 57% absorption rate in artificial environments mimicking the human intestinal tract.

Testing on germ-free mice yielded significant results as well. The feces of mice administered CBA3656 bacteria contained over twice the amount of nanoplastics compared to those that did not receive probiotics. This suggests that probiotics can actively bind nanoplastics in the gut and facilitate their removal from the body. Dr. Se Hee Lee, the lead researcher, emphasized, “Plastic pollution is a severe problem not only for the environment but also for public health.”