1
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Wang J, Wang Y, Li Z, Wang J, Zhao H, Zhang X. Gut microbiota, a key to understanding the knowledge gaps on micro-nanoplastics-related biological effects and biodegradation. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 944:173799. [PMID: 38852863 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Micro-nanoplastics (MNPs) pollution as a global environmental issue has received increasing interest in recent years. MNPs can enter and accumulate in the organisms including human beings mainly via ingestion and inhalation, and large amounts of foodborne MNPs have been frequently detected in human intestinal tracts and fecal samples. MNPs regulate the structure composition and metabolic functions of gut microbiota, which may cause the imbalance of intestinal ecosystems of the hosts and further mediate the occurrence and development of various diseases. In addition, a growing number of MNPs-degrading strains have been isolated from organismal feces. MNPs-degraders colonize the plastic surfaces and form the biofilms, and the long-chain polymers of MNPs can be biologically depolymerized into short chains. In general, MNPs are gradually degraded into small molecule substances (e.g., N2, CH4, H2O, and CO2) via a series of enzymatic catalyses, mainly including biodeterioration, fragmentation, assimilation, and mineralization. In this review, we outline the current progress of MNPs effects on gut microbiota and MNPs degradation by gut microbiota, which provide a certain theoretical basis for fully understanding the knowledge gaps on MNPs-related biological effect and biodegradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiping Wang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yutong Wang
- China University of Mining & Technology-Beijing, Beijing, China
| | - Zhenyu Li
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Xiangya Stomatological Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
| | - Hongbo Zhao
- School of Minerals Processing and Bioengineering, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xian Zhang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, China.
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2
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Pham DT, Choi SH, Kwon JH. Year-round spatial and temporal distribution of microplastics in water and sediments of an urban freshwater system (Jungnang Stream, Korea). ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 357:124362. [PMID: 38908675 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 06/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024]
Abstract
Streams and tributaries can play a significant role in the transport of inland microplastics to rivers and oceans; however, research on microplastics in these water bodies is limited compared to riverine and marine environments. Analyzing microplastic abundance at higher spatial and temporal resolutions is crucial to comprehend the dynamics of microplastics in these water bodies. Therefore, this study investigated year-round spatiotemporal variations of microplastics monthly in surface waters and sediments along the Jungnang Stream, one of the main tributaries to the Han River in South Korea. The mean concentration of microplastics in the stream was 9.8 ± 7.9 particles L-1 in water and 3640 ± 1620 particles kg-1 in sediment. Microplastic concentrations in surface waters during summer were significantly higher than in other seasons, positively linked to increased precipitation and river discharges. Polymer compositions mainly consisted of polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyethylene terephthalate, with the majority of microplastics detected smaller than 200 μm. Fragment-shaped microplastics were predominant over fibrous ones. The estimated annual input and output of microplastics through surface waters were 1.2-207 kg (2.7-150 billion particles) and 11.3-272 kg (17-769 billion particles), with the summer months contributing more than 70% of the total output. The greater microplastics output in the Jungnang Stream's waters compared to its receiving waters (Han River) indicates microplastics transport from water to other environmental compartments, such as sediments. These findings highlight the importance of investigating microplastic abundances in surface waters and sediments with temporal resolution, at least across different seasons. Such investigations offer valuable insights into the spatiotemporal occurrence and dynamic transport of microplastics, providing essential information for water management and the development of policies in freshwater ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dat Thanh Pham
- BK21 FOUR R&E Center for Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea; Division of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Hyun Choi
- Division of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Hwan Kwon
- Division of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.
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3
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Basaran B, Aytan Ü, Şentürk Y. First occurrence and risk assessment of microplastics in enteral nutrition formulas. Food Chem Toxicol 2024; 191:114879. [PMID: 39047973 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2024.114879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Occurrence and characteristics of microplastics were evaluated in enteral nutrition formulas, for the first time. A total of 30 samples belonging to 9 brands were analysed. Physical and chemical characteristics of microplastics were identified by stereomicroscopy and micro-raman spectroscopy, respectively. The mean number of microplastics was 45 ± 63 MP/L. Two different shapes of microplastics were detected with fibres (62%) being the most common microplastics followed by fragments (38%). The most common color of microplastics was black (37%) followed by blue (26%), orange (15%), green (7%), red (7%), grey (4%) and multicolor (4%). The length of microplastics ranged from 10 to 2086 μm with an average of 548 ± 526 μm. Estimated mean daily microplastic intake for four different scenarios varied between 24 to 61 and 30 to 76 MPs/day for women and men, respectively. The mean polymer hazard index and microplastic load index levels were calculated as 380 and 1.30, respectively. The results of this study showed that microplastics are prevalent in enteral nutrition products. The presence of polymers with high hazard risk scores in enteral nutrition formulas may pose a risk to the health of patients with special nutritional needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Burhan Basaran
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Recep Tayyip Erdogan University, Rize, 53100, Turkey.
| | - Ülgen Aytan
- Department of Marine Biology, Faculty of Fisheries, Recep Tayyip Erdogan University, Rize 53100, Turkey
| | - Yasemen Şentürk
- Department of Marine Biology, Faculty of Fisheries, Recep Tayyip Erdogan University, Rize 53100, Turkey
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4
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Xiao X, Liu S, Li L, Li R, Zhao X, Yin N, She X, Peijnenburg W, Cui X, Luo Y. Seaweeds as a major source of dietary microplastics exposure in East Asia. Food Chem 2024; 450:139317. [PMID: 38636378 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2024.139317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) occurrence in marine ecosystems is well known, but their accumulation in seaweeds and subsequent human exposure remain understudied. This research quantifies MPs presence in two commonly consumed seaweeds, kelp (Saccharina japonica) and nori (Pyropia yezoensis), in East Asia, revealing widespread contamination dominated by microfibers (<500 μm). Based on dietary patterns, human uptake through seaweed consumption was estimated and quantified. Notably, Chinese people consume an estimated 17,034 MPs/person/year through seaweed consumption, representing 13.1% of their total annual MPs intake. This seaweeds-derived exposure surpasses all other dietary sources, contributing up to 45.5% of overall MPs intake. The highest intake was in South Korea, followed by North Korea, China, and Japan. This research identifies seaweeds as a major, previously overlooked route of dietary MPs exposure. These findings are crucial for comprehensive risk assessments of seaweed consumption and the development of mitigation strategies, particularly for populations in East Asian countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyang Xiao
- College of Resources and Environment, National Engineering Laboratory for Efficient Utilization of Soil and Fertilizer Resources, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an 271018, China; CAS Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai 264003, China
| | - Shaochong Liu
- College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Lianzhen Li
- College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China.
| | - Ruijie Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaoyu Zhao
- College of the Environment and Ecology, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Na Yin
- CAS Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai 264003, China
| | - Xilin She
- College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Willie Peijnenburg
- Institute of Environmental Sciences (CML), Leiden University, RA Leiden 2300, the Netherlands; National Institute of Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Center for Safety of Substances and Products, P.O. Box 1, Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Xiumin Cui
- College of Resources and Environment, National Engineering Laboratory for Efficient Utilization of Soil and Fertilizer Resources, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an 271018, China.
| | - Yongming Luo
- CAS Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing, China.
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5
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Socas-Hernández C, Miralles P, González-Sálamo J, Hernández-Borges J, Coscollà C. Assessment of anthropogenic particles content in commercial beverages. Food Chem 2024; 447:139002. [PMID: 38513486 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2024.139002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic (MPs) pollution is a current global concern that is affecting all environmental compartments and food sources. In this work, anthropogenic particles occurrence (MPs and natural and synthetic cellulosic particles), have been determined in 73 beverages packed in different containers. Overall, 1521 anthropogenic particles were found, being the lowest occurrence in water samples (7.2 ± 10.1 items·L-1) while beer had the highest (95.5 ± 91.8 items·L-1). Colourless/white particles were the most detected followed by blue and red colours. The highest mean size was 783 ± 715 μm in soft drinks. Cellulosic, both natural and semisynthetic particles, were the composition mostly found but regarding plastic polymers, it was polyester. Phenoxy resin particles from the can coatings were also identified in all metal containers which indicates that leaching from the packaging may be happening. The total estimated daily intake were 0.077 and 0.159 items·kg-1 body weight (b.w.)·day-1 for children and adult population, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Socas-Hernández
- Departamento de Química, Unidad Departamental de Química Analítica, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, s/n, 38206 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; Foundation for the Promotion of Health and Biomedical Research of the Valencia Region, FISABIO-Public Health, Av. Catalunya, 21, 46020 Valencia, Spain
| | - Pablo Miralles
- Foundation for the Promotion of Health and Biomedical Research of the Valencia Region, FISABIO-Public Health, Av. Catalunya, 21, 46020 Valencia, Spain.
| | - Javier González-Sálamo
- Departamento de Química, Unidad Departamental de Química Analítica, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, s/n, 38206 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Universidad de La Laguna, Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, s/n, 38206 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Javier Hernández-Borges
- Departamento de Química, Unidad Departamental de Química Analítica, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, s/n, 38206 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Universidad de La Laguna, Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, s/n, 38206 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain.
| | - Clara Coscollà
- Foundation for the Promotion of Health and Biomedical Research of the Valencia Region, FISABIO-Public Health, Av. Catalunya, 21, 46020 Valencia, Spain
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6
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DeLoid GM, Yang Z, Bazina L, Kharaghani D, Sadrieh F, Demokritou P. Mechanisms of ingested polystyrene micro-nanoplastics (MNPs) uptake and translocation in an in vitro tri-culture small intestinal epithelium. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 473:134706. [PMID: 38795489 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024]
Abstract
Micro and nanoplastics (MNPs) are now ubiquitous contaminants of food and water. Many cellular and animal studies have shown that ingested MNPs can breach the intestinal barrier to reach the circulation. To date however, the cellular mechanisms involved in intestinal absorption of MNPs have not been investigated with physiologically relevant models, and thus remain unknown. We employed in vitro simulated digestion, a tri-culture small intestinal epithelium model, and a panel of inhibitors to assess the contributions of the possible mechanisms to absorption of 26 nm carboxylated polystyrene (PS26C) MNPs. Inhibition of ATP synthesis reduced translocation by only 35 %, suggesting uptake by both active endocytic pathways and passive diffusion. Translocation was also decreased by inhibition of dynamin and clathrin, suggesting involvement of clathrin mediated endocytosis (CME) and fast endophilin-mediated endocytosis (FEME). Inhibition of actin polymerization also significantly reduced translocation, suggesting involvement of macropinocytosis or phagocytosis. However, inhibition of the Na+-H+ exchanger had no effect on translocation, thus ruling out macropinocytosis. Together these results suggest uptake by passive diffusion as well as by active phagocytosis, CME, and FEME pathways. Further studies are needed to assess uptake mechanisms for other environmentally relevant MNPs as a function of polymer, surface chemistry, and size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glen M DeLoid
- Nanoscience and Advanced Materials Center, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute (EOHSI), Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA.
| | - Zhenning Yang
- Nanoscience and Advanced Materials Center, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute (EOHSI), Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA; Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Lila Bazina
- Nanoscience and Advanced Materials Center, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute (EOHSI), Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA; School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Davood Kharaghani
- Nanoscience and Advanced Materials Center, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute (EOHSI), Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Faranguisse Sadrieh
- Nanoscience and Advanced Materials Center, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute (EOHSI), Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Philip Demokritou
- Nanoscience and Advanced Materials Center, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute (EOHSI), Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA; School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA.
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7
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Meng X, Ge L, Zhang J, Xue J, Gonzalez-Gil G, Vrouwenvelder JS, Guo S, Li Z. Nanoplastics induced health risk: Insights into intestinal barrier homeostasis and potential remediation strategy by dietary intervention. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 472:134509. [PMID: 38704907 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 04/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Aged nanoplastics (aged-NPs) have unique characteristics endowed by environmental actions, such as rough surface, high oxygen content. Although studies have highlighted the potential hazards of aged-NPs, limited research has provided strategies for aged-NPs pollution remediation. The dietary intervention of quercetin is a novel insight to address the health risks of aged-NPs. This study explored the impact of aged-NPs on intestinal barrier homeostasis at the environmentally relevant dose and investigated the alleviating effects of quercetin on aged-NPs toxicity through transcriptomics and molecular biology analysis. It indicated that aged-NPs induced intestinal barrier dysfunction, which was characterized by higher permeability, increased inflammation, and loss of epithelial integrity, while quercetin restored it. Aged-NPs disrupted redox homeostasis, upregulated inflammatory genes controlled by AP-1, and led to Bax-dependent mitochondrial apoptosis. Quercetin intervention effectively mitigated inflammation and apoptosis by activating the Nrf2. Thus, quercetin decreased intestinal free radical levels, inhibiting the phosphorylation of p38 and JNK. This study unveiled the harmful effects of aged-NPs on intestinal homeostasis and the practicability of dietary intervention against aged-NPs toxicity. These findings broaden the understanding of the NPs toxicity and provide an effective dietary strategy to relieve the health risks of NPs. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPLICATIONS: Growing levels of NPs pollution have represented severe health hazards to the population. This study focuses on the toxic mechanism of aged-NPs on the intestinal barrier and the alleviating effect of quercetin dietary intervention, which considers the environmental action and relevant dose. It revealed the harmful effects of aged-NPs on intestinal inflammation with the key point of free radical generation. Furthermore, a quercetin-rich diet holds significant promise for addressing and reversing intestinal damage caused by aged-NPs by maintaining intracellular redox homeostasis. These findings provide an effective dietary strategy to remediate human health risks caused by NPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuemei Meng
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Northwest A&F University Shaanxi, Yangling 712100, PR China; School of Food Science and Engineering, Ningxia University, Ningxia, Yinchuan 750021, PR China
| | - Lei Ge
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Northwest A&F University Shaanxi, Yangling 712100, PR China
| | - Jiawei Zhang
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Northwest A&F University Shaanxi, Yangling 712100, PR China
| | - Jinkai Xue
- Cold-Region Water Resource Recovery Laboratory (CRWRRL), Environmental Systems Engineering, Faculty of Engineering & Applied Science, University of Regina, 3737 Wascana Parkway, Regina, SK S4S 0A2, Canada
| | - Graciela Gonzalez-Gil
- Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE), Water Desalination and Reuse Center (WDRC), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Johannes S Vrouwenvelder
- Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE), Water Desalination and Reuse Center (WDRC), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shaomin Guo
- Northwest A&F University Hospital, Northwest A&F University Shaanxi, Yangling 712100, PR China.
| | - Zhenyu Li
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Northwest A&F University Shaanxi, Yangling 712100, PR China; Water Technologies Innovation Institute & Research advancement (WTIIRA), Saline Water Conversion Corporation (SWCC), P.O. Box 8328, Al-Jubail 31951, Saudi Arabia.
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8
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Barrientos M, Vásquez Lavín F, Ponce Oliva RD, Nayga RM, Gelcich S. Microplastics in seafood: Consumer preferences and valuation for mitigation technologies. Food Res Int 2024; 187:114342. [PMID: 38763635 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2024.114342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics, an emerging pollutant, have garnered widespread attention due to potential repercussions on human health and the environment. Given the critical role of seafood in food security, growing concerns about microplastics might be detrimental to meeting future global food demand. This study employed a discrete choice experiment to investigate Chilean consumers' preferences for technology aimed at mitigating microplastic levels in mussels. Using a between-subjects design with information treatments, we examined the impact of informing consumers about potential human health and environmental effects linked to microplastics pollution on their valuation for the technology. We found that the information treatments increased consumers' willingness to pay for mussels. Specifically, consumers were willing to pay a premium of around US$ 4 for 250 g of mussel meat with a 90 % depuration efficiency certification. The provision of health impact information increased the price premium by 56 %, while the provision of environmental information increased it by 21 %. Furthermore, combined health and environmental information significantly increased the probability of non-purchasing behavior by 22.8 % and the risk perception of microplastics for human health by 5.8 %. These results emphasized the critical role of information in shaping consumer preferences and provided evidence for validating investment in research and development related to microplastic pollution mitigation measures.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Felipe Vásquez Lavín
- School of Economics and Business, Universidad del Desarrollo, Concepción, Chile; Center of Applied Ecology and Sustainability (CAPES), Santiago, Chile; Coastal Socio-Ecological Millennium Institute (SECOS), Santiago, Chile
| | - Roberto D Ponce Oliva
- School of Economics and Business, Universidad del Desarrollo, Concepción, Chile; Center of Applied Ecology and Sustainability (CAPES), Santiago, Chile; Coastal Socio-Ecological Millennium Institute (SECOS), Santiago, Chile
| | - Rodolfo M Nayga
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA; Adjunct Professor, Korea University, Korea
| | - Stefan Gelcich
- Center of Applied Ecology and Sustainability (CAPES), Santiago, Chile; Coastal Socio-Ecological Millennium Institute (SECOS), Santiago, Chile; Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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9
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Basaran B, Aytan Ü, Şentürk Y, Özçifçi Z, Akçay HT. Microplastic contamination in some beverages marketed in türkiye: Characteristics, dietary exposure and risk assessment. Food Chem Toxicol 2024; 189:114730. [PMID: 38740239 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2024.114730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2024] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
In this study, microplastic contamination in water, natural mineral water and mineral water, sparkling soft drinks, cold tea and some traditional beverages marketed in Türkiye were assessed. Microplastics physically and chemically characterized by microscope and ATR/FT-IR, respectively. Microplastics were detected in 9 out of 47 beverage samples. A total of 250 microplastics with 5 different polymers, 2 different shapes, and 7 different colours were detected in 47 beverage samples. The average microplastic concentration was 2.24 ± 9.86 particles/L for all beverages analysed. The highest average microplastic concentration was found in mineral waters in glass bottles (average 11.3 particles/L). No microplastics were found in cold tea and other drinks. The total annual microplastic exposure from beverage consumption in male and female individuals aged >15 years was 2029 and 1786 particles/mL/year, respectively. The microplastic load index category of all beverage samples was determined as "moderate". The average pRi level of all beverages was 117 ± 260 and the risk level was determined as "low". The study provides evidence that microplastics are common in beverages and that microplastics are directly ingested by humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Burhan Basaran
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Recep Tayyip Erdogan University, Rize, 53100, Türkiye.
| | - Ülgen Aytan
- Department of Marine Biology, Faculty of Fisheries, Recep Tayyip Erdogan University, Rize, 53100, Türkiye
| | - Yasemen Şentürk
- Department of Marine Biology, Faculty of Fisheries, Recep Tayyip Erdogan University, Rize, 53100, Türkiye
| | - Zehra Özçifçi
- Department of Chemistry Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Recep Tayyip Erdogan University, Rize, 53100, Türkiye
| | - Hakkı Türker Akçay
- Department of Chemistry Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Recep Tayyip Erdogan University, Rize, 53100, Türkiye
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10
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Battaglini E, Miralles P, Lotti N, Soccio M, Fiorini M, Coscollà C. Analysis of microplastics in commercial vegetable edible oils from Italy and Spain. Food Chem 2024; 443:138567. [PMID: 38295567 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2024.138567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
In this work, assessment of microplastics (MPs) in commercial vegetable edible oils from Italy and Spain, including extra-virgin olive oil, olive oil, sunflower oil, and mixed seed oil, has been conducted for the first time. The method was based on sample dilution with ethanol:n-hexane (1:3, v/v), homogenization, vacuum filtration on macroporous silicon filters with 5 μm pore diameter to collect MPs, and automatic µ-FTIR spectroscopy for MPs detection and characterization. In the analysis of oil samples, a mean MPs abundance of 1140 ± 350 MPs/L was found. Observed MPs were characterized, being most of them fragments (81.2 %), with particle sizes < 100 µm (77.5 %), and mainly composed of polyethylene (50.3 %) and polypropylene (28.7 %), among others. Statistical analysis revealed that there were not significant differences (p-value > 0.05) in the abundance of MPs between oil samples or types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Battaglini
- Department of Civil, Chemical, Environmental and Materials Engineering, University of Bologna, Italy
| | - Pablo Miralles
- Foundation for the Promotion of Health and Biomedical Research in the Valencian Region (FISABIO-Public Health), Valencia, Spain.
| | - Nadia Lotti
- Department of Civil, Chemical, Environmental and Materials Engineering, University of Bologna, Italy; CIRI MAM, University of Bologna, Italy; CIRI AGRO, University of Bologna, Italy
| | - Michelina Soccio
- Department of Civil, Chemical, Environmental and Materials Engineering, University of Bologna, Italy; CIRI AGRO, University of Bologna, Italy
| | - Maurizio Fiorini
- Department of Civil, Chemical, Environmental and Materials Engineering, University of Bologna, Italy; CIRI MAM, University of Bologna, Italy
| | - Clara Coscollà
- Foundation for the Promotion of Health and Biomedical Research in the Valencian Region (FISABIO-Public Health), Valencia, Spain
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11
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Doherty VF, Aneyo IA, Fatunsin OT, Enyoh CE, Yahaya TO, Emeronye IG, Amolegbe OA, Amaeze NH, Anyiam FE, Oloidi AA, Ajagbe F, Popoola O, Ugochukwu M. Assessment of fishes, sediment and water from some inland rivers across the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria for microplastics. Environ Anal Health Toxicol 2024; 39:e2024018-0. [PMID: 39054832 PMCID: PMC11294661 DOI: 10.5620/eaht.2024018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
In Nigeria, limited research has been conducted on Microplastics (MPs) in inland rivers, necessitating a comprehensive assessment to understand the extent of contamination. This study aimed to assess the abundance, distribution, and composition of MPs in fishes, sediment, and water from inland rivers across Nigeria's six geopolitical zones. Samples were collected from selected rivers in each geopolitical zone (Rivers Yauri, Benue, Argungu, Jamare, Ogun, Ethiope and Orashi). MPs were isolated using a combination of filtration, density separation, and visual identification. MPs abundance, distribution, shapes, colors, and chemical composition were determined using microscopy and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The study presents the first report of MPs in six in land rivers in Nigeria and found that MPs were present in all the fishes, sediments and river waters studied across all the rivers. The abundance and composition of MPs varied among the different sample types, with fibers being the most abundant shape in both water and fish samples. PET, PP, and PE were the most prevalent types of plastics found in fish samples, while PE/PA/Nylon, PVA, and PVC were predominant in water samples. PA/Nylon, PUR, PVC, and PET were the most common in sediment samples. Source analysis by Principal component analysis (PCA) and Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA) indicated that the presence of MPs was mainly influenced by local anthropogenic activities. However, estimated daily intakes are generally low, indicating that daily consumption of the samples is not likely to be harmful. The widespread presence of MPs in inland rivers across Nigeria highlights the urgent need for effective waste management strategies and environmental conservation efforts to mitigate plastic pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Idowu Ayisat Aneyo
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science University of Lagos, Akoka, Yaba, Lagos Nigeria
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Felix Emeka Anyiam
- Centre for Health & Development, University of Port-Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria
| | - Aderonke Ajibola Oloidi
- Department of Science Laboratory Technology, Yaba College of Technology, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Folashade Ajagbe
- Department of Biological Science, Yaba College of Technology, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Oluwaseun Popoola
- Department of Science Laboratory Technology, Yaba College of Technology, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Moses Ugochukwu
- Department of Science Laboratory Technology, Yaba College of Technology, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
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12
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Garcia MM, Romero AS, Merkley SD, Meyer-Hagen JL, Forbes C, Hayek EE, Sciezka DP, Templeton R, Gonzalez-Estrella J, Jin Y, Gu H, Benavidez A, Hunter RP, Lucas S, Herbert G, Kim KJ, Cui JY, Gullapalli RR, In JG, Campen MJ, Castillo EF. In Vivo Tissue Distribution of Polystyrene or Mixed Polymer Microspheres and Metabolomic Analysis after Oral Exposure in Mice. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2024; 132:47005. [PMID: 38598326 PMCID: PMC11005960 DOI: 10.1289/ehp13435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Global plastic use has consistently increased over the past century with several different types of plastics now being produced. Much of these plastics end up in oceans or landfills leading to a substantial accumulation of plastics in the environment. Plastic debris slowly degrades into microplastics (MPs) that can ultimately be inhaled or ingested by both animals and humans. A growing body of evidence indicates that MPs can cross the gut barrier and enter into the lymphatic and systemic circulation leading to accumulation in tissues such as the lungs, liver, kidney, and brain. The impacts of mixed MPs exposure on tissue function through metabolism remains largely unexplored. OBJECTIVES This study aims to investigate the impacts of polymer microspheres on tissue metabolism in mice by assessing the microspheres ability to translocate across the gut barrier and enter into systemic circulation. Specifically, we wanted to examine microsphere accumulation in different organ systems, identify concentration-dependent metabolic changes, and evaluate the effects of mixed microsphere exposures on health outcomes. METHODS To investigate the impact of ingested microspheres on target metabolic pathways, mice were exposed to either polystyrene (5 μ m ) microspheres or a mixture of polymer microspheres consisting of polystyrene (5 μ m ), polyethylene (1 - 4 μ m ), and the biodegradability and biocompatible plastic, poly-(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (5 μ m ). Exposures were performed twice a week for 4 weeks at a concentration of either 0, 2, or 4 mg / week via oral gastric gavage. Tissues were collected to examine microsphere ingress and changes in metabolites. RESULTS In mice that ingested microspheres, we detected polystyrene microspheres in distant tissues including the brain, liver, and kidney. Additionally, we report on the metabolic differences that occurred in the colon, liver, and brain, which showed differential responses that were dependent on concentration and type of microsphere exposure. DISCUSSION This study uses a mouse model to provide critical insight into the potential health implications of the pervasive issue of plastic pollution. These findings demonstrate that orally consumed polystyrene or mixed polymer microspheres can accumulate in tissues such as the brain, liver, and kidney. Furthermore, this study highlights concentration-dependent and polymer type-specific metabolic changes in the colon, liver, and brain after plastic microsphere exposure. These results underline the mobility within and between biological tissues of MPs after exposure and emphasize the importance of understanding their metabolic impact. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP13435.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus M. Garcia
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico Health Sciences, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Aaron S. Romero
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Seth D. Merkley
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Jewel L. Meyer-Hagen
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Charles Forbes
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Eliane El Hayek
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico Health Sciences, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - David P. Sciezka
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico Health Sciences, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Rachel Templeton
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico Health Sciences, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
- University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jorge Gonzalez-Estrella
- School of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Yan Jin
- Center for Translational Science, Florida International University, Port St. Lucie, Florida, USA
| | - Haiwei Gu
- Center for Translational Science, Florida International University, Port St. Lucie, Florida, USA
| | - Angelica Benavidez
- Center for Micro-Engineered Materials, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Russell P. Hunter
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico Health Sciences, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Selita Lucas
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico Health Sciences, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Guy Herbert
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico Health Sciences, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Kyle Joohyung Kim
- Department of Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Julia Yue Cui
- Department of Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Rama R. Gullapalli
- Department of Pathology, University of New Mexico Health Sciences, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Julie G. In
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Matthew J. Campen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico Health Sciences, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Eliseo F. Castillo
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
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13
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Jeong J, Im J, Choi J. Integrating aggregate exposure pathway and adverse outcome pathway for micro/nanoplastics: A review on exposure, toxicokinetics, and toxicity studies. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 272:116022. [PMID: 38309230 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024]
Abstract
Micro/nanoplastics (MNPs) have emerged as a significant environmental concern due to their widespread distribution and potential adverse effects on human health and the environment. In this study, to integrate exposure and toxicity pathways of MNPs, a comprehensive review of the occurrence, toxicokinetics (absorption, distribution, and excretion [ADE]), and toxicity of MNPs were investigated using the aggregate exposure pathway (AEP) and adverse outcome pathway (AOP) frameworks. Eighty-five papers were selected: 34 papers were on detecting MNPs in environmental samples, 38 papers were on the ADE of MNPs in humans and fish, and 36 papers were related to MNPs toxicity using experimental models. This review not only summarizes individual studies but also presents a preliminary AEP-AOP framework. This framework offers a comprehensive overview of pathways, enabling a clearer visualization of intricate processes spanning from environmental media, absorption, distribution, and molecular effects to adverse outcomes. Overall, this review emphasizes the importance of integrating exposure and toxicity pathways of MNPs by utilizing AEP-AOP to comprehensively understand their impacts on human and ecological organisms. The findings contribute to highlighting the need for further research to fill the existing knowledge gaps in this field and the development of more effective strategies for the safe management of MNPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaeseong Jeong
- School of Environmental Engineering, University of Seoul, 163 Seoulsiripdae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02504, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeongeun Im
- School of Environmental Engineering, University of Seoul, 163 Seoulsiripdae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02504, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinhee Choi
- School of Environmental Engineering, University of Seoul, 163 Seoulsiripdae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02504, Republic of Korea.
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14
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Canga EM, Gowen A, Xu JL. Assessing the inconsistency of microplastic measurements in foods and beverages. Compr Rev Food Sci Food Saf 2024; 23:e13315. [PMID: 38462817 DOI: 10.1111/1541-4337.13315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
The widespread occurrence of microplastics (MPs) in the food chain has gained substantial recognition as a pressing concern, highlighting the inevitability of human exposure through ingestion of foodborne MPs, coupled with the release of MPs from plastic packaging. However, there are notable disparities in the reported numbers of MPs in foods and beverages, warranting a thorough investigation into the factors contributing to these discrepancies. Table salt is one of the major sources of MPs, and there was an approximately hundred-fold difference between the reviewed studies that reported the highest and lowest number of MPs. In addition, more noticeable discrepancies were discovered between studies on MPs released from teabags. One study reported that approximately 15 billion MPs were released into a cup of tea from a single teabag, whereas another research paper found only approximately 106.3 ± 14.6 MP/teabag after brewing. This comprehensive review focuses on the inconsistencies observed across studies examining MPs, shedding light on the plausible factors underlying these variations. Furthermore, the review outlines areas in analytical procedures that require enhancement and offers recommendations to promote accuracy and standardization in future research efforts, such as employing analytical methods capable of confirming the presence of MPs, using appropriate filter sizes, considering representative sample sizes when extrapolation is involved, and so on. By pinpointing the detection processes leading to the inconsistent results observed in MP studies, this comparative analysis will contribute to the development of reliable analytic methods for understanding the extent of microplastic contamination in the human food chain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emine Merve Canga
- UCD School of Biosystems and Food Engineering, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Aoife Gowen
- UCD School of Biosystems and Food Engineering, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Jun-Li Xu
- UCD School of Biosystems and Food Engineering, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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15
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Zhu Y, Che R, Zong X, Wang J, Li J, Zhang C, Wang F. A comprehensive review on the source, ingestion route, attachment and toxicity of microplastics/nanoplastics in human systems. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 352:120039. [PMID: 38218169 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.120039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs)/nanoplastics (NPs) are widely found in the natural environment, including soil, water and the atmosphere, which are essential for human survival. In the recent years, there has been a growing concern about the potential impact of MPs/NPs on human health. Due to the increasing interest in this research and the limited number of studies related to the health effects of MPs/NPs on humans, it is necessary to conduct a systematic assessment and review of their potentially toxic effects on human organs and tissues. Humans can be exposed to microplastics through ingestion, inhalation and dermal contact, however, ingestion and inhalation are considered as the primary routes. The ingested MPs/NPs mainly consist of plastic particles with a particle size ranging from 0.1 to 1 μm, that distribute across various tissues and organs within the body, which in turn have a certain impact on the nine major systems of the human body, especially the digestive system and respiratory system, which are closely related to the intake pathway of MPs/NPs. The harmful effects caused by MPs/NPs primarily occur through potential toxic mechanisms such as induction of oxidative stress, generation of inflammatory responses, alteration of lipid metabolism or energy metabolism or expression of related functional factors. This review can help people to systematically understand the hazards of MPs/NPs and related toxicity mechanisms from the level of nine biological systems. It allows MPs/NPs pollution to be emphasized, and it is also hoped that research on their toxic effects will be strengthened in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yining Zhu
- School of Environment, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China; Key Laboratory for Soft Chemistry and Functional Materials of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210094, China
| | - Ruijie Che
- School of Environment, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China; Key Laboratory for Soft Chemistry and Functional Materials of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210094, China
| | - Xinyan Zong
- School of Environment, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China; Key Laboratory for Soft Chemistry and Functional Materials of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210094, China
| | - Jinhan Wang
- School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210009, China
| | - Jining Li
- School of Environment, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China; Key Laboratory for Soft Chemistry and Functional Materials of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210094, China
| | - Chaofeng Zhang
- Sino-Jan Joint Lab of Natural Health Products Research, School of Traditional Chinese Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210009, China
| | - Fenghe Wang
- School of Environment, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China; Key Laboratory for Soft Chemistry and Functional Materials of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210094, China.
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16
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Kutralam-Muniasamy G, Shruti VC, Pérez-Guevara F. Microplastic contamination in commercially packaged edible seaweeds and exposure of the ethnic minority and local population in Mexico. Food Res Int 2024; 176:113840. [PMID: 38163691 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2023.113840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Diet is an important pathway for microplastic exposure. This study examined distinct edible seaweed products sold at ethnic food stores in Mexico for microplastic contamination, as well as the exposure of the Asian ethnic minority and local population to microplastics. Microplastics were extracted from seaweed samples using a wet oxide digestion with hydrogen peroxide followed by zinc chloride density separation. They were subsequently detected, quantified, and the polymer type was determined via microscopic inspection and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Microplastic contamination was detected in all samples, with an average abundance of 24.0 ± 9.4 items g-1. Fibrous-shaped (61 %) and non-colored (57 %) microplastics were prevalent. Microplastics with sizes smaller than 0.2 mm prevailed (60 %), and they have the potential to penetrate gut barriers and endanger human health. Polymers identified consisted of polyethylene-polypropylene, polyamide, cellophane, rayon, and polyethylene terephthalate. According to pollution load index values, seaweed samples were minimally contaminated with microplastics, with values ranging between 3.7 and 6.0. The estimated yearly intake of microplastic from seaweed consumption by the South Korean and Chinese populations in Mexico was 5.8 × 104 ± 2.3 × 104 and 5.7 × 104 ± 4.9 × 104, respectively. This study's findings highlight the importance of improved control measures for minimizing microplastics in foods for export.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gurusamy Kutralam-Muniasamy
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, México
| | - V C Shruti
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, México.
| | - Fermín Pérez-Guevara
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, México; Nanoscience & Nanotechnology Program, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, México
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17
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Liu D, Iqbal S, Gui H, Xu J, An S, Xing B. Nano-Iron Oxide (Fe 3O 4) Mitigates the Effects of Microplastics on a Ryegrass Soil-Microbe-Plant System. ACS NANO 2023; 17:24867-24882. [PMID: 38084717 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c05809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
To understand microplastic-nanomaterial interactions in agricultural systems, a randomized block 90-day pot experiment was set up to cultivate ryegrass seedings in a typical red sandy soil amended with compost (1:9 ratio). Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polyethylene (PE) microplastic (MP) contaminants were added into pot soils at 0.1 and 10%, whereas nano-Fe3O4 (as nanoenabled agrochemicals) was added at 0.1% and 0.5% in comparison with chemical-free controls. The combination of nano-Fe3O4 and MPs significantly increased the soil pH (+3% to + 17%) but decreased the total nitrogen content (-9% to - 30%; P < 0.05). The treatment group with both nano-Fe3O4 and PE had the highest total soil C (29 g kg-1 vs 20 g kg-1 in control) and C/N ratio (13 vs 8 in control). Increased rhizosphere nano-Fe3O4 concentrations promoted ryegrass growth (+42% dry weight) by enhancing the chlorophyll (+20%) and carotenoid (+15%) activities. Plant leaf and root peroxidase enzyme activity was more significantly affected by nano-Fe3O4 with PVC (+15%) than with PE (+6%). Nano-Fe3O4 significantly changed the ryegrass bacterial community structure from belowground (the rhizoplane and root endosphere) to aboveground (the phylloplane). Under MP contamination, the addition of nano-Fe3O4 increased bacterial diversity (+0.35%) and abundance (+30%) in the phylloplane and further intensified the connectivity of ryegrass aboveground bacterial networks (positive association increased 17%). The structural equation model showed that the change in the plant microbiome was associated with the rhizosphere microbiome. Overall, these findings imply the positive influences of nano-Fe3O4 on the soil-microbe-plant system and establish a method to alleviate the harmful effects of MP accumulation in soils.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Liu
- The Germplasm Bank of Wild Species, Yunnan Key Laboratory for Fungal Diversity and Green Development, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, Yunnan, People's Republic of China
| | - Shahid Iqbal
- Department of Economic Plants and Biotechnology, Yunnan Key Laboratory for Wild Plant Resources, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, People's Republic of China
- Centre for Mountain Futures (CMF), Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, People's Republic of China
| | - Heng Gui
- Department of Economic Plants and Biotechnology, Yunnan Key Laboratory for Wild Plant Resources, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, People's Republic of China
- Centre for Mountain Futures (CMF), Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianchu Xu
- Department of Economic Plants and Biotechnology, Yunnan Key Laboratory for Wild Plant Resources, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, People's Republic of China
- Centre for Mountain Futures (CMF), Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, People's Republic of China
| | - Shaoshan An
- State Key Laboratory of Soil Erosion and Dryland Farming on the Loess Plateau, Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Baoshan Xing
- Stockbridge School of Agriculture, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, United States
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18
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Halfar J, Čabanová K, Vávra K, Delongová P, Motyka O, Špaček R, Kukutschová J, Šimetka O, Heviánková S. Microplastics and additives in patients with preterm birth: The first evidence of their presence in both human amniotic fluid and placenta. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 343:140301. [PMID: 37769922 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.140301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023]
Abstract
Considering the well documented, almost ubiquitous nature of microplastics in different environments, the exposure of pregnant women to microplastics may pose risks to the unborn children. The study focused on investigating the presence of microplastics in amniotic fluid and placenta, and brings the first evidence of the simultaneous presence of microplastics and additives in both human amniotic fluid and placentas. In total, 20 samples of amniotic fluid and placenta from 10 patients were analyzed for the presence of microplastics and plastic additives by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy - attenuated total reflectance (FTIR-ATR) after alkaline digestion with KOH. In 9 out of 10 patients, microplastics or additives were found in amniotic fluid, placenta, or both. Specifically, 44 particles of microplastics and polymer additives were identified in all samples. Chlorinated Polyethylene (CPE) and Calcium zinc PVC Stabilizer with particle sizes between 10 and 50 μm prevailed. Although all women involved in this study, who provided placenta and amniotic fluid samples, experienced physiological, singleton pregnancies complicated with preterm prelabour rupture of membranes (PPROM), it is too early to draw any conclusions and more research is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Halfar
- Faculty of Mining and Geology, VŠB - Technical University of Ostrava, 17. Listopadu 2172/15, Ostrava, Poruba, 708 33, Czech Republic.
| | - Kristina Čabanová
- Faculty of Mining and Geology, VŠB - Technical University of Ostrava, 17. Listopadu 2172/15, Ostrava, Poruba, 708 33, Czech Republic; Centre for Advanced Innovation Technologies, Faculty of Materials Science and Technology, VŠB-Technical University of Ostrava, 17. Listopadu 2172/15, Ostrava, Poruba, 708 00, Czech Republic
| | - Karel Vávra
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospital of Ostrava, 17. Listopadu 1790/5, 70852, Ostrava, Poruba, Czech Republic; Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ostrava, Syllabova 19, 703 00, Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - Patricie Delongová
- Institute of Pathology and Molecular Genetics, University Hospital of Ostrava, 17. Listopadu 1790/5, 70852, Ostrava, Poruba, Czech Republic; Institute of Molecular and Clinical Pathology and Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ostrava, Syllabova 19, 703 00, Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - Oldřich Motyka
- Faculty of Mining and Geology, VŠB - Technical University of Ostrava, 17. Listopadu 2172/15, Ostrava, Poruba, 708 33, Czech Republic; Nanotechnology Centre, CEET, VŠB-Technical University of Ostrava, 17. Listopadu 2172/15, Ostrava, Poruba, 708 00, Czech Republic
| | - Richard Špaček
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospital of Ostrava, 17. Listopadu 1790/5, 70852, Ostrava, Poruba, Czech Republic; Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ostrava, Syllabova 19, 703 00, Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - Jana Kukutschová
- Centre for Advanced Innovation Technologies, Faculty of Materials Science and Technology, VŠB-Technical University of Ostrava, 17. Listopadu 2172/15, Ostrava, Poruba, 708 00, Czech Republic
| | - Ondřej Šimetka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospital of Ostrava, 17. Listopadu 1790/5, 70852, Ostrava, Poruba, Czech Republic; Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ostrava, Syllabova 19, 703 00, Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - Silvie Heviánková
- Faculty of Mining and Geology, VŠB - Technical University of Ostrava, 17. Listopadu 2172/15, Ostrava, Poruba, 708 33, Czech Republic
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Lee SY, An J, Kwon JH. Sequential quantification of number and mass of microplastics in municipal wastewater using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and pyrolysis gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 336:122452. [PMID: 37633435 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution is a significant environmental concern because microplastics (MPs) accumulate in various ecosystems; therefore, the accurate identification and quantification of MPs in environmental samples is crucial. This study presents a new sequential analytical method that combines Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and pyrolysis-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (Pyr-GC/MS) to characterize and quantify MPs. FTIR with a microscope allows the identification of the polymer type and physical dimensions of MPs, whereas Pyr-GC/MS enables determining the chemical composition of MPs with plastic additives. Pretreated wastewater influent samples spiked with reference MPs were filtered through an Al2O3 disk for FTIR analysis, and the surface contents were collected and subjected to Pyr-GC/MS analysis. The mass of the reference MPs estimated using FTIR were in good agreement but were slightly lower than those obtained using Pyr-GC/MS. This finding supports the notion that the proposed sequential method can be used to determine both the number and the mass of MPs in environmental samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- So-Young Lee
- Division of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea; Knoell Korea, 37 Gukjegeumyung-ro 2-gil, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, 07327, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jiyul An
- Division of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Hwan Kwon
- Division of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.
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20
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Di Fiore C, Carriera F, Russo MV, Avino P. Are Microplastics a Macro Issue? A Review on the Sources of Contamination, Analytical Challenges and Impact on Human Health of Microplastics in Food. Foods 2023; 12:3915. [PMID: 37959034 PMCID: PMC10647536 DOI: 10.3390/foods12213915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, human populations' exposure to microplastics via foods is becoming a topic of concern. Although microplastics have been defined as "emerging contaminants", their occurrence in the environment and food is quite dated. This systematic review aims to investigate the discrepancies which are characterizing the research in the microplastics field in foods, with particular regard to sample preparations, microplastics' concentrations and their effect on humans. For the selection of papers, the PRISMA methodology was followed. Discrepancies in the methodological approaches emerged and in the expression of the results as well, underlying the urgency in the harmonization of the methodological approaches. Uncertainties are still present regarding the adverse effects of microplastics on the human body. The scientific evidence obtained thus far is, in fact, not sufficient to demonstrate a concrete negative effect. This review has clearly underlined the need to standardise laboratory approaches to obtain useful results for better food safety management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Di Fiore
- Department of Agricultural, Environmental and Food Sciences (DiAAA), University of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy; (F.C.); (M.V.R.); (P.A.)
| | - Fabiana Carriera
- Department of Agricultural, Environmental and Food Sciences (DiAAA), University of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy; (F.C.); (M.V.R.); (P.A.)
- Department of Civil and Mechanical Engineering, University of Cassino and Southern Lazio, 03043 Cassino, Italy
| | - Mario Vincenzo Russo
- Department of Agricultural, Environmental and Food Sciences (DiAAA), University of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy; (F.C.); (M.V.R.); (P.A.)
| | - Pasquale Avino
- Department of Agricultural, Environmental and Food Sciences (DiAAA), University of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy; (F.C.); (M.V.R.); (P.A.)
- Institute of Atmospheric Pollution Research, Division of Rome, c/o Ministry of Environment and Energy Security, 00147 Rome, Italy
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21
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Lee J, Jeong S. Approach to an answer to "How dangerous microplastics are to the human body": A systematic review of the quantification of MPs and simultaneously exposed chemicals. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 460:132404. [PMID: 37672992 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
This review aims to facilitate future research on microplastics (MPs) in the environment using systematic and analytical protocols, ultimately contributing to assessment of the risk to human health due to continuous daily exposure to MPs. Despite extensive studies on MP abundance in environment, identification, and treatment, their negative effects on human health remain unknown due to the lack of proof from clinical studies and limited technology on the MP identification. To assess the risk of MPs to human health, the first step is to estimate MP intake via ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contact under standardized exposure conditions in daily life. Furthermore, rather than focusing on the sole MPs, migrating chemicals from plastic products should be quantified and their health risk be assessed concurrently with MP release. The critical factors influencing MP release and simultaneously exposed chemicals (SECs) must be investigated using a standardized identification method. This review summarises release sources, factors, and possible routes of MPs from the environment to the human body, and the quantification methods used in risk assessment. We also discussed the issues encountered in MP release and SEC migration. Consequently, this review provides directions for future MP studies that can answer questions about MP toxicity to human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jieun Lee
- Institute for Environment and Energy, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, South Korea
| | - Sanghyun Jeong
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, South Korea.
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22
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Canha N, Jafarova M, Grifoni L, Gamelas CA, Alves LC, Almeida SM, Loppi S. Microplastic contamination of lettuces grown in urban vegetable gardens in Lisbon (Portugal). Sci Rep 2023; 13:14278. [PMID: 37652978 PMCID: PMC10471761 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-40840-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Urban vegetable gardens are very often a feature of cities that want to offer their citizens a more sustainable lifestyle by producing their own food products. However, cities can have significant pollution levels (or pollution hotspots) due to specific sources of pollution, such as traffic. Among the various pollutants, microplastics (MPs) are emerging as a consensual concern due to the awareness of the environmental contamination, their bioaccumulation potential and human intake, and, consequently unknown human health impacts. The present study compared the content of MPs in lettuce plants cultivated in Lisbon urban gardens with those cultivated in a rural area, as well as samples bought in supermarkets. Microplastics were detected in all washed leaves, with mean levels ranging from 6.3 ± 6.2 to 29.4 ± 18.2 MPs/g. Lettuce grown in urban gardens from areas with high traffic density showed higher MPs levels. Weak positive Spearman's rank correlations were found between MPs content and concentrations of Cu and S (determined by Particle Induced X-Ray Emission, PIXE), suggesting a possible role of traffic contribution to MPs levels, as both elements are considered traffic-source tracers. These results contribute to shed light on the MP contamination of vegetables grown in such urban environments, that may represent a potential MP exposure route through the dietary intake, corresponding to a 70% increase in annual MP intake compared to lettuces bought in supermarkets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuno Canha
- Centro de Ciências e Tecnologias Nucleares C2TN, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Estrada Nacional 10, Km 139.7, 2695-066, Bobadela LRS, Portugal.
| | | | - Lisa Grifoni
- University of Siena, Siena, Italy
- Istituto Nazionale Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), 605, Via di Vigna Murata, 00143, Roma, Italy
| | - Carla A Gamelas
- Centro de Ciências e Tecnologias Nucleares C2TN, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Estrada Nacional 10, Km 139.7, 2695-066, Bobadela LRS, Portugal
- Instituto Politécnico de Setúbal, Escola Superior de Tecnologia de Setúbal, Centro de Investigação em Energia e Ambiente, IPS Campus, 2914-508, Setúbal, Portugal
| | - Luís C Alves
- Centro de Ciências e Tecnologias Nucleares C2TN, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Estrada Nacional 10, Km 139.7, 2695-066, Bobadela LRS, Portugal
| | - Susana Marta Almeida
- Centro de Ciências e Tecnologias Nucleares C2TN, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Estrada Nacional 10, Km 139.7, 2695-066, Bobadela LRS, Portugal
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23
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Altunışık A. Prevalence of microplastics in commercially sold soft drinks and human risk assessment. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 336:117720. [PMID: 36907066 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.117720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Due to the increasing global plastic production and use in recent years, the amount of microplastic (MP) accumulating in the environment has also increased. This microplastic pollution potential has been documented mostly in studies of the sea or seafood. The presence of microplastics in terrestrial foods has therefore attracted less attention, despite the potential for future major environmental risks. Some of these researches are related to bottled water, tap water, honey, table salt, milk, and soft drinks. However, the presence of microplastics in soft drinks has not yet been evaluated in the European continent, including Türkiye. Hence, the current study focused on the presence and distribution of microplastics in ten soft drink brands in Türkiye since the water utilized in the bottling process of soft drinks originates from different water supply sources. Using FTIR stereoscopy and stereomicroscope examination, MPs were detected in all of these brands. According to the microplastic contamination factor (MPCF) classification, 80% of the soft drink samples indicated a high level of contamination with microplastics. The study's findings showed that each liter of consumed soft drinks exposes people to about nine microplastic particles, which is a moderate dose when compared to exposure levels in earlier research. It has been determined that bottle-production processes and the substrates used for food production may be the main sources of these microplastics. The chemical components of these microplastic polymers were polyamide (PA), polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyethylene (PE), and fibers were the dominant shape. Compared to adults, children were subjected to higher microplastic loads. The study's preliminary data on MP contamination of soft drinks may be useful for further evaluating the risks exposure to microplastics poses to human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah Altunışık
- University of Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Department of Biology, 53100, Rize, Türkiye.
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