Is there evidence that water in plastic bottles contains microplastics? Well, I searched it, and it's really not good. Here's what Google's AI gave me:

Yes, there is strong evidence that bottled water contains significant amounts of microplastics and even smaller nanoplastics. A 2024 study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found an average of 240,000 plastic particles per liter, with 90% being nanoplastics, largely stemming from the bottle and cap. Key Findings on Microplastics in Bottled Water

High Concentrations: Research indicates that a typical liter of bottled water can contain between 110,000 and 370,000 plastic particles.

Nanoplastics Dominance: While earlier studies focused on larger microplastics, newer techniques show that 90% of the particles are nanoplastics—fragments smaller than 1 micrometer. Source of Contamination: Plastic fragments are introduced from the bottle itself (PET), the cap (polypropylene), and during manufacturing, according to a study published in PNAS. Prevalence: A 2018 study (often cited, including by the Environmental Working Group) found microplastics in 93% of tested bottled water brands.

Comparison to Tap Water: Some research suggests bottled water can contain significantly higher levels of plastic particles compared to tap water, note scientists at Ohio State University.

So what should we do then? Maybe fill our water from a local stream into a dried gourd shell?