Have microplastics been found in artery plaque?
A 2024 New England Journal of Medicine study found microplastics or nanoplastics in carotid artery plaque and linked detection with higher risk of heart attack, stroke, or death during follow-up. It did not prove food packaging caused plaque.
Short answer
Microplastics have been found in artery plaque, but the phrase "clog arteries" goes too far. A 2024 New England Journal of Medicine study found polyethylene in carotid artery plaque from 150 of 257 patients who completed follow-up.
Patients with microplastics or nanoplastics detected in plaque had a higher risk of heart attack, stroke, or death over about 34 months. This was an observational study, so it does not prove microplastics caused those events.
Where food packaging fits
A 2025 Food Chemistry study measured microplastics released from plastic food containers. Release increased with high-fat foods, temperature changes, and longer contact time.
What to do
Use glass storage for leftovers, warm foods, and high-fat foods. It is a simple way to reduce one plastic food-contact route while the bigger health picture is still being studied.
The research at a glance
What to use instead
Use glass storage for leftovers, warm foods, and high-fat foods. It lowers one plastic food-contact route without claiming to protect arteries.
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