Microplastics, tiny particles of plastic less than 5mm in size, have infiltrated our environment and are now found in many foods we consume daily. These contaminants originate from various sources, including ocean plastic pollution, packaging materials, and industrial processes.
This article explores the foods most likely to contain microplastics. Understanding which foods are most affected by microplastics is crucial for raising awareness and addressing potential health risks associated with their consumption.
Shellfish
Shellfish are among the most contaminated foods in terms of microplastics. The common types are mussels, oysters, and clams. These filter feeders ingest microplastics directly from the surrounding water, making them particularly vulnerable.
A study found that retail shellfish consumed by humans can contain up to 2.41 to 2.84 microplastic particles per gram of wet weight. Given their popularity in many cuisines, this is a significant concern for seafood lovers.
Salt
Whether sourced from the sea, lakes, or rock salt deposits, microplastics have been detected in table salt across the globe. As published on the official website of the National Library of Medicine, a study found that Himalayan pink salt had the highest concentration of microplastics, with an average of 174 particles per kilogram.
An average person could consume around 2,000 microplastic particles annually just from salt. The contamination likely occurs during the harvesting process, where microplastics present in the environment are collected alongside the salt crystals.
Bottled Water
Bottled water has been scrutinized for years, but recent studies have added another layer of concern: microplastics. Research showed that there were around 240,000 pieces of plastic per liter of bottled water, out of which 90% were found to be neoplastic. These particles can originate from the plastic bottles themselves or the bottling process. While tap water also contains microplastics, bottled water often has higher concentrations, significantly contributing to our daily intake.
Beer
It may sound surprising, but Beer, one of the most popular beverages, is a vital source of microplastics. Due to plastic pollution, beer, made from wheat, has been found to contain around 28 microplastic particles per liter, surpassing other beverages like soda, iced tea, and so on.
The brewing process does not eliminate these particles, meaning they can end up in the final product. While the levels are relatively low compared to other foods, the sheer volume of beer consumed globally at 192.1 million kiloliters makes it a noteworthy entry on this list.
Sugar
Sugar, a common ingredient in almost every household, has recently been flagged as a source of microplastics. A 2023 study revealed that microplastics could be present in refined, unrefined, and powdered sugars. The contamination mainly occurs during the processing stages, when sugar comes into contact with machinery, packaging, and storage containers made of plastic.
Fish
Fish, mainly those caught in the wild, are another significant source of microplastics. Fish ingests these particles through their natural feeding processes, as the microplastic content undergoes biomagnification because larger carnivorous fishes consume smaller fishes. A 2024 study emphasized that larger predatory fishes, such as tuna and salmon, tend to have higher levels of microplastics than herbivorous fishes. This process occurs when smaller fishes, already containing microplastics, are eaten by larger fishes, accumulating these particles up the food chain.
Rice
Rice, a staple for most people worldwide, has also been found to contain microplastics. Rice could become contaminated with microplastics during packaging. The use of plastic packaging and storage containers is one potential source, as is the presence of microplastics in the water used for irrigation. This discovery is particularly concerning given the widespread consumption of rice, with 520.4 million metric tons consumed globally in the years 2022-2023.
Dairy Products
Dairy products, including milk, cheese, and yogurt, have been identified as potential sources of microplastic contamination. A 2024 study highlighted that these particles could enter dairy products through the animals’ feed and water supply in the farm, processing, or packaging, which may be contaminated with microplastics. While the levels are generally low, the cumulative effect is worth noting.
Tea Bags
Tea bags, particularly those made from plastic or containing plastic-based materials, are a surprising source of microplastics. Researchers have found that a single tea bag could release 11.6 billion microplastic and 3.1 billion nanoplastic particles into the water. These findings have increased scrutiny of tea bag materials and a push towards more sustainable, plastic-free alternatives.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables that are irrigated with water or grown in soil are said to contain microplastics, which can absorb these particles. The particles can enter through the roots and accumulate in the edible parts of these plants. Apples and carrots are the most prone to microplastic contamination, with 100,000 microplastics per gram.
Bread
Bread, a daily staple for many, has also been found to contain microplastics. Microplastics could enter the bread through various stages of production, including flour, water, and plastic packaging. The particles are often too small to be detected by the naked eye but are present nonetheless. This finding is particularly concerning given that the US’s per capita consumption of bread is 19.84 kilograms.
Chicken and Other Poultry
Chicken and other poultry have been identified as potential sources of microplastics, mainly due to their feed. Studies have found that poultry feed, often stored and transported in plastic containers, could be contaminated with microplastics. These particles and contaminated water then make their way into the birds’ bodies and, eventually, into the meat. While the contamination levels are still being studied, it is clear that microplastics are present in the food chain at multiple levels.