Sajedi's analysis revealed that individuals typically consume between 39,000 and 52,000 microplastic particles annually through food and drinking water. The additional intake from daily bottled water consumption significantly increases this amount. Sajedi was inspired to conduct this research after observing plastic debris, largely from plastic bottles, covering a beach in Phi Phi Island, Thailand. This experience led her to shift her focus from environmental software to researching the direct effects of plastic consumption on the human body.

Microplastics are small plastic particles resulting from the degradation of larger plastic items. These particles can enter the environment through various sources, including the breakdown of plastic bottles, industrial waste, and the washing of synthetic textiles. The prevalence of microplastics in drinking water, both tap and bottled, has become a growing concern for scientists and environmental advocates.

While the long-term health effects of microplastic ingestion are still under investigation, some studies suggest potential risks. These include inflammation, disruption of the gut microbiome, and exposure to harmful chemicals that can leach from the plastic. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has acknowledged the presence of microplastics in food and beverages and is actively researching the potential risks to human health.

Sajedi advises that drinking water from plastic bottles should be reserved for emergencies rather than a daily habit. She emphasizes the need to understand the potential long-term effects of microplastic ingestion, even if immediate impacts are not apparent. The research highlights the pervasive nature of plastic pollution and its potential consequences for human health, prompting further investigation and discussion about sustainable alternatives to bottled water.