Eden Prairie Student Tests Plant Mucilage for Microplastics

Seventh-grader Isabella Garry investigated how common plant extracts perform at absorbing microplastics.

Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Botany

A close-up of a laboratory beaker filled with plant extract and tiny plastic fragments, capturing the process of microplastic mitigation research. — Seventh-grader Isabella Garry advanced to the 2026 Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge after researching how plant mucilages can capture microplastics. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Isabella Garry, a seventh-grade student from Eden Prairie, tested plant-based mucilages for their ability to remove microplastics in a simulated stomach environment. Her project earned her a spot as one of 30 finalists in the 2026 Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge.

Why it matters

Garry conducted the experiment to determine if natural plant properties could potentially mitigate microplastic presence within the human body. This research addresses growing concerns regarding the prevalence of microplastic particles in newborns.

The experiment used Mason jars with 0.5 grams of microplastics and a simulated stomach fluid with a pH between 1.8 and 2.2. Over a 60-minute duration, samples were swirled every 15 minutes to test 1% and 2% mucilage concentrations.

The players

Isabella Garry

She is a seventh-grade student from Eden Prairie who investigates the environmental and health impacts of microplastics.

Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge

This national science competition selects middle school students who demonstrate excellence in STEM research and innovation.

Society for Science

This nonprofit organization promotes the understanding and appreciation of science through education, advocacy, and journalism.

The details

Garry created microplastic particles by sanding down plastic utensils for the study. She competed against nearly 2,000 applicants to reach the final round of the national innovation challenge.

The absorption experiment lasted for a duration of 60 minutes.
Finalists attended the competition Finals Week in Washington, DC, from October 23 to 28, 2026.
The Society for Science announced the competition winners on October 27, 2026.

The Big Picture

This study aligns with the goals of the Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge to foster student-led exploration of complex environmental issues. It marks a shift toward leveraging natural botany to address modern synthetic pollutants in biological systems.

While the experiment was contained in laboratory jars, it highlights the potential for future development of natural, plant-based interventions for microplastic ingestion. Further research will be needed to determine if such methods could lead to viable medical or dietary applications.

The takeaway

This study demonstrates how simple household ingredients like psyllium and okra can be tested for significant environmental mitigation properties. It serves as a reminder that innovative solutions to complex global problems can originate from small-scale, student-led experimentation.