Although the effects of microplastics on the human body are still poorly defined today, researchers are exploring the possibility of limiting their accumulation. Recently, South Korean scientists claimed that bacteria present in kimchi, the national dish made from fermented vegetables, could be a viable solution.
Kimchi at the heart of a promising study
First, it is important to note that microplastics and nanoplastics infiltrate the human body via food, water, and air. Once ingested or inhaled, these fragments spread throughout the body. According to several studies, traces of these particles have already been found in the arteries, the liver, the kidneys, the placenta, the lungs, and even the brain. At present, the effects are still poorly understood but there could be hormonal disruptions, intestinal inflammations, cardiovascular disorders or, links with neurodegenerative diseases.
In such a context, tackling the limitation of microplastic accumulation is evident. In South Korea, more precisely at the World Institute of Kimchi, researchers indicated that a probiotic bacterium derived from kimchi could help to eliminate microplastics present in the digestive system. The results of their work were published in the journal Bioresource Technology in May 2026.
« This study aimed to identify promising strains of lactic acid bacteria capable of effectively adsorbing nanoparticles in environmental and intestinal contexts, thereby contributing to the protection of human health. », can be read in the study.
A probiotic bacterium capable of trapping microplastics
To recall, kimchi is a traditional Korean dish composed of lacto-fermented vegetables and brined with spices. Its recipe and preparation method are inscribed on UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage list. In addition, the researchers are part of the Kimchi Functionality Research Group, a very serious team dedicated to studying the biological mechanisms and the medicinal and nutritional virtues of kimchi.
In practice, the scientists focused their attention on a specific strain of lactic acid bacteria: Leuconostoc mesenteroides CBA3656. In laboratory tests, this bacterium physically clung to tiny polystyrene particles in an environment simulating the human intestine. It acts as a magnet, trapping the unwanted particles. Moreover, the trap operates before the particles cross the intestinal barrier to migrate to the liver, the kidneys, or even the brain.
Awaiting human testing
The probiotic bacterium Leuconostoc mesenteroides CBA3656 was tested on mouse models exposed to plastics. According to the results, its administration allowed to halve the quantity of particles found in the feces. As the number of microplastics excreted via natural routes was reduced, it logically follows that their absorption would likewise be affected.
From a public health standpoint, the avenue seems quite serious. Yet, caution is warranted. It should be noted that, for now, the researchers have not yet conducted human trials. Thus, the direct effect of kimchi consumption on the elimination of microplastics in humans remains to be confirmed. Moreover, it should be noted that not all kimchi available commercially contains the famous probiotic bacterium.
