A Hidden Ingredient Raising Alarm in Bangladesh Toothpaste
Md Jahidul Islam
Dhaka: A study in Bangladesh has raised fresh concerns over the lack of standards for microplastics in everyday oral-care products after researchers detected plastic particles in more than three-quarters of toothpaste samples tested.
The year-long study by the Environment and Social Development Organization (ESDO) found microplastics in 26 of 34 toothpaste samples, or 76.5 percent, covering 19 brands sold in Bangladesh.
Researchers said the findings highlight a regulatory gap, as Bangladesh currently has no specific standards, permissible limits, testing protocols or mandatory labelling requirements for microplastics in toothpaste.
The study examined 25 locally manufactured samples and nine imported products from India, Thailand and Vietnam. Microplastics were detected in products from all four countries, while 22 of the 25 Bangladeshi-made samples tested positive.
Particle concentrations ranged from 20 to 320 particles per 100 grams of toothpaste, with the highest concentration recorded at 320 particles.
The concern also extends to products marketed for children. Four of six children’s toothpaste samples contained microplastics, with concentrations ranging from 20 to 140 particles per 100 grams.
Researchers said none of the products tested disclosed the presence of microplastics or synthetic polymers on their packaging, leaving consumers with little information about what they may be purchasing.
The findings were presented at ESDO’s headquarters in Dhaka during the launch of Bangladesh’s first study specifically examining microplastics in toothpaste. Laboratory analysis was conducted at Jahangirnagar University’s Laboratory of Environmental Health and Ecotoxicology using stereomicroscopy and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy.
The study also pointed to a significant awareness gap. A survey of 2,760 consumers found that while toothpaste use was almost universal, 41.9 percent had never heard of microplastics in oral-care products, compared with 26.9 percent who said they were aware of the issue.
ESDO officials said the findings should serve as baseline evidence for developing standards, improving product monitoring and introducing clearer labelling requirements.
Md. Manjurul Karim, deputy director of the Chemical Wing at the Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI), acknowledged the findings and said existing toothpaste requirements list 40 approved ingredients but do not specifically address microplastics. He said authorities would consider amendments to introduce standards for the particles.
Experts cautioned that research into the long-term health effects of microplastic exposure is still evolving, although studies have raised concerns about inflammation, oxidative stress and possible effects on respiratory, digestive, cardiovascular and reproductive health.
ESDO officials called for stronger scientific research, coordinated monitoring, consumer education and transparent product information, arguing that toothpaste’s daily use makes the issue particularly important for public-health policy.
The study’s findings have shifted attention from individual toothpaste brands to a broader question: how should Bangladesh regulate microplastics in products used by millions of people every day?
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