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Motion · S6M-17339 · 24 Apr 2025

Microplastics in Chewing Gum Research

Lodged by Kevin Stewart Standard Motion 22 supporters

The motion

That the Parliament is concerned about the implications for public health due to microplastics in the food chain; understands that many chewing gum products contain an ingredient known as "base gum" which, when chewed, breaks down into microplastics, but it is estimated that almost 90% of consumers are unaware of this fact; notes new research from Queen’s University Belfast, which confirms that these microplastic particles can be ingested by the human body through the saliva that is produced while chewing gum, with, it understands, a single piece potentially containing over a quarter of a million pieces of microplastics; recognises that early research into the effects of microplastics on human organs suggests that ingestion of these materials may be a contributing factor of infertility, strokes and heart attacks; believes that this research highlights the need to take action on chewing gum to ensure that people are aware of the presence of microplastics, and calls on the UK Government to consider a full-scale ban on chewing gum products that contain sources of microplastics.

Supporters (22)

Source: the Scottish Parliament motions and amendments record.