Kimchi-Derived Probiotic Shows Promise in Eliminating Nanoplastics from the Gut
A lactic acid bacterium found in kimchi, a traditional Korean fermented food, may assist the body eliminate nanoplastics, according to recent research. The study, conducted by researchers at the World Institute of Kimchi (WiKim), suggests this probiotic could offer a biological solution to the growing problem of nanoplastic accumulation in the human body.
What are Nanoplastics?
Nanoplastics are ultrafine plastic particles less than 1 micrometer in size, generated from the breakdown of larger plastic materials.1 These particles can enter the body through food and drinking water and, due to their compact size, may cross the intestinal barrier and accumulate in organs like the kidneys and brain.1
The Research on Leuconostoc mesenteroides CBA3656
The research team, led by Drs. Se Hee Lee and Tae Woong Whon, investigated the adsorption capacity of Leuconostoc mesenteroides CBA3656, a lactic acid bacterium isolated from kimchi, against polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs).13
Under standard laboratory conditions, CBA3656 demonstrated a high adsorption efficiency of 87%, comparable to the reference strain Latilactobacillus sakei CBA3608 (85%).2 However, the key finding was its performance under simulated human intestinal conditions. While the adsorption rate of the reference strain decreased significantly to 3%, CBA3656 maintained a substantially higher adsorption level of 57%.123
These results suggest that the kimchi-derived strain can effectively bind to nanoplastics even within the complex environment of the human intestinal tract, potentially aiding in their excretion. Animal experiments using a germ-free mouse model have also shown significant findings.3
Fermented Foods and Gut Health
This research highlights the potential of microorganisms from traditional fermented foods in addressing public health concerns related to plastic pollution.2 Fermented foods, beyond kimchi, offer probiotic benefits and may contribute to overall gut health.
- Yogurt
- Kefir
- Sauerkraut
- Cheese
- Sourdough bread
- Olives
- Kimchi
Looking Ahead
While these findings are promising, further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms involved and to assess the potential of CBA3656 as a therapeutic intervention for nanoplastic exposure in humans. The World Institute of Kimchi continues to investigate the potential of kimchi-derived probiotics for various health benefits.3
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