Strange pigmented things in Subway napkin

  • Thread starter papernuke
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Strange
In summary, the conversation discusses the discovery of colored dots on a Subway napkin when viewed under a USB microscope. It is suggested that these dots are remnants of recycled paper that were not affected by bleaching agents. It is also speculated that the colored dots could be from recycled magazines that have glossy, colorfast images that resist bleaching.
  • #1
papernuke
36
0
So I was playing with a USB microscope at my desk, and I just viewed a Subway napkin with it. Attached is the picture I saw at ~75x magnification

There's dots of all sorts of colors.. yellow, light blue, green, red.. even pink.
Does anyone know what the colored dots might be?

There's a description on the napkin saying "contains 100% recycled fiber."
 

Attachments

  • rsz_20121006_0004.jpg
    rsz_20121006_0004.jpg
    43.4 KB · Views: 432
Chemistry news on Phys.org
  • #2
could be recycled polymer fibers.
 
  • #3
I can see this type of thing barely in my rough notebook, made out of unbleached recycled paper.

These coloured bits and pieces are just remnants of recycled paper unaffected by the bleaching agents, which turns them white.
 
  • #4
If they're recycled paper, why are there so many colored spots? Is there really that much colored paper being recycled?
 
  • #5
They are probably recycled magazines, with colourfast glossy picture fragments that would certainly survive bleaching if any, and remain attached to the fibres in the recycling process.
 

FAQ: Strange pigmented things in Subway napkin

What are these strange pigmented things in Subway napkins?

The strange pigmented things in Subway napkins are most likely bacteria or fungi that have grown on the napkin due to moisture and warmth. They may appear as black, green, or brown spots.

Are these pigmented things harmful to my health?

In most cases, these pigmented things are not harmful to your health. However, it is always best to err on the side of caution and avoid touching or consuming them. If you have a weakened immune system or allergies, it is best to discard the napkin and use a new one.

How do these pigmented things end up on Subway napkins?

Subway napkins are made from paper, which is a perfect breeding ground for bacteria and fungi. When the napkins are exposed to moisture and warmth, such as from condensation on a cold drink or from being in a sealed package, this creates an ideal environment for these microorganisms to grow.

Can these pigmented things be prevented?

Yes, these pigmented things can be prevented by keeping your Subway napkins in a cool, dry place and making sure they are not exposed to moisture. You can also try to use the napkins as soon as possible after they are removed from their packaging, as this will prevent any potential growth.

Should I be concerned if I accidentally ate or touched these pigmented things?

If you accidentally ate or touched these pigmented things, it is unlikely to cause any harm. However, if you start to experience any unusual symptoms, it is best to consult a healthcare professional. It is always better to be safe than sorry.

Similar threads

Replies
23
Views
3K
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
3K
Replies
3
Views
2K
Back
Top