Microplastics in packaged beverages: Glass bottles not responsible; caps to blame, says glass industry body

“The study is clear that the level of microplastics found in the bottles tested is linked to the metal caps/closures of the bottles, and not from glass packaging,” AIGMF said in its statement.

On probing this difference, researchers concluded that the microplastics had probably originated from the metal caps on glass bottles — and more specifically from the paint on these caps.

In its response to the ANSES study, the European Container Glass Federation (FEVE) also said that microplastics in glass bottles was “linked to metal caps/closures of the bottles and not from glass packaging itself.”

Urging stakeholders to understand the manufacturing process of glass bottles, AIGMF president Rajesh Khosla said “glass has been a trusted mode of packaging since ancient times.”

Elaborating on the composition of glass, Vinit Kapur, secretary, AIGMF, said glass is distinct from plastic since it is made from silica sand and recycled glass. It involves a high temperature process which does not involve plastic formation, he added.

“When plastic particles are observed in beverages packaged in glass bottles, these particles are attributed to external components like caps and closures, specifically those involving painted metal surfaces, plastic liners, or sealing compounds,” Kapur said.

AIGMF re-emphasised that glass is non-toxic and chemically inert. Apart from being completely recyclable, glass does not contain harmful additives, according to the statement. Glass does not react chemically with food or drinks contained in it, FEVE said in its response to the ANSES study.