Because microplastics were only discovered in recent years, there are few studies on the phenomenon beyond its existence. While experts know that microplastics are in water, soil, food sources, and human body parts including vital organs and reproductive systems, there is little research on the health effects yet.

In 2022, the World Health Report concluded there is no clear risk to human health based on available evidence at that time. Many experts are skeptical of the health impact of microplastics, but due to the lack of research they are unable to point to specific risks.