New Jersey bill targets chewing gum and other products for microplastic disclosure
Lawmakers propose requiring manufacturers to label items containing intentionally added microplastics, with a potential sales ban following three years of data collection.
By Luka Evans ·
Assemblywomen Shama Haider and Margie Donlon introduced the Protecting Against Microplastics Act, a bill that could force manufacturers to label products containing tiny plastic particles. The legislation specifically targets chewing gum, cosmetics, and cleaning supplies.
The proposal requires companies to disclose the presence of intentionally added microplastics in their items. If the bill passes, a statewide ban on selling these specific products would take effect three years after the initial disclosure mandate.
Haider cited emerging research regarding the internal accumulation of these particles. “We have some level of research that shows they go into our blood, liver, lungs and kidneys,” she said.
The bill moves forward despite a differing stance from federal regulators. The FDA maintains that current scientific evidence does not show that detected levels of microplastics in food pose a risk to human health.
The measure is currently under consideration in the New Jersey Legislature. It must receive approval from both chambers before it can be sent to the governor’s desk for a final decision.
Until the legislation is enacted, residents may continue to purchase their usual brands. The proposal aims to reduce exposure through everyday consumer goods by forcing transparency from manufacturers.
