Lawmakers in New Jersey could burst gum lovers’ bubbles with a proposed ban that could pull chewing gum from store shelves. The proposed Protecting Against Microplastics Act aims to reduce people's exposure to microplastics, tiny plastic particles that can enter the body through everyday activities, including eating with plastic utensils. The bill would require companies to disclose microplastics in products such as chewing gum, tea bags, coffee grounds, talcum powder and pet food. It defines microplastics as synthetic plastic particles no larger than five millimeters that are added during manufacturing or industrial processes. Gum loyalists don't need to panic just yet. The proposal is still making its way through the legislative process, and any ban would take years to implement. Under the proposed timeline, once the measure becomes law, manufacturers would have three years to comply.
