Accidentally Consumed Plastic with Kimbap
Hey everyone, I have a rather embarrassing incident to share. At 26 years old, I tried kimbap for the first time after picking some up from a local Asian grocery store. I thought I had removed the packaging correctly, especially since this version was in a triangular shape with pictorial instructions. While I was halfway through enjoying my meal, I suddenly noticed that there was still some plastic underneath the seaweed. A closer inspection of the wrapper revealed that I had inadvertently consumed more plastic than I realized 🤦‍♀️. I had a considerable amount! Since this was my first experience with this food, I assumed the seaweed would have a crunchy texture. Yes, I know, it sounds foolish. I honestly didn’t feel the plastic in my mouth; it seemed quite thin. Regarding my health background to follow the necessary guidelines: I regularly take Tri Lo-Mili birth control and 50 mg of spironolactone for hormonal acne, along with a multivitamin and probiotic. At the moment, I’m also awaiting the results from a culture test for a potential sinus infection. Should I be concerned about this? Is there any risk of getting sick from it? I've attempted to reach out to the manufacturer mentioned on the wrapper (Ari Bakery Cafe), but I haven’t received a response yet regarding whether their wrappers are food-grade, which, according to Google, could indicate that the wrapper is safer to ingest because it ensures the food's safety?
Answers (1)
3/21/2025, 6:00:51 PM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to feel concerned after accidentally consuming plastic, but there are some key points to consider regarding your situation. Here's an overview:
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Risk Assessment: Ingesting small amounts of plastic, especially if it's thin and food-grade, generally poses a low risk of immediate harm. Food-grade plastics are designed to be safe for contact with food, although they are not intended for ingestion.
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Potential Symptoms: Most people who accidentally consume small pieces of plastic may not experience any adverse symptoms. However, some individuals can have digestive discomfort, which may include abdominal pain, nausea, or changes in bowel movements.
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Next Steps: Here’s what you should do moving forward:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to help your digestive system. This can assist in passing the material through your system.
- Monitor Symptoms: Pay attention to any symptoms you may experience, such as stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or changes in your bowel habits. Keep track of these symptoms for a few days.
- Dietary Considerations: Stick to light, easily digestible foods for the next day or two. Avoid heavy, fatty, or spicy foods that might irritate your stomach.
- Consult a Medical Professional if Symptoms Occur: If you begin to experience any concerning symptoms, such as severe abdominal pain, persistent nausea, vomiting, or blood in your stool, it would be wise to seek medical advice.
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Reassurance: While it’s certainly uncomfortable to think about, it’s likely that your body will handle the situation without any serious issues. Many people inadvertently consume non-food materials without significant consequences.
It's great that you're proactive in seeking information and concerned about your health! If you have further questions or if anything changes, don't hesitate to reach out for more guidance.
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