PVC blood storage bags leach microplastics into stored blood

Common PVC blood storage bags shed microplastics into stored blood and preservation fluids, a new study finds, raising concerns about contamination of transfused blood. Researchers in China reported in Environment & Health that particle levels rose 7- to 20-fold over 30 days. Higher temperatures and simulated transport increased shedding; microscopy showed microplastics attached to red blood cells and lowered their energy. Ultrafiltration removed 78–85% of microplastics and preserved red-cell shape and energy, offering a possible safeguard. Larger studies across manufacturers and storage settings are still needed.