Strange plastic(?) shavings in fuel filter

[dibbleg]

Hey guys, I had some problems with my engine and decided to pull it. After taking off the fuel line and checking the filter, i noticed these weird shavings inside the filter. They aren't magnetic..so at least they aren't steel, but they look like plastic. Anyone have any clue where the hell this could have come from? I haven't had a chance yet to take a look at the carb to see if they're in there.