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Rangel-Buitrago N, Galgani F, Nicoll K, Neal WJ. Rethinking geological concepts in the age of plastic pollution. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 950:175366. [PMID: 39127201 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.175366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2024] [Revised: 07/25/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
This paper attempts to reevaluate traditional geological classifications from sedimentology to stratigraphy as well as the concept of the Holocene/Anthropocene epochs, characterized by the widespread integration of plastics into sedimentary environments. This paper presents a set of novel insights into the interactions between synthetic materials and natural geological processes. We illustrate how plastics not only disrupt sedimentary dynamics and alter the composition of rocks and soils, creating new forms of pollution and also pose escalated threats to marine biodiversity through altered erosion, transport, and deposition patterns. We highlight the emerging role of plastics as distinctive stratigraphic markers, providing a different perspective on human environmental impacts. This analysis challenges the traditional perception of rocks as solely natural, inorganic formations and highlights the critical need for interdisciplinary approaches that meld geology, chemistry, and environmental science. The document calls for intensified research to develop effective strategies for managing these impacts and promotes innovative conservation techniques that address both the symptoms and sources of plastic pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nelson Rangel-Buitrago
- Programa de Física, Facultad de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad del Atlántico, Barranquilla, Atlántico, Colombia.
| | - Francois Galgani
- Unité Ressources marines en Polynésie Francaise, Institut français de Recherche Pour l'Exploitation de la Mer (Ifremer), BP 49, Vairao, Tahiti, French Polynesia
| | - Kathleen Nicoll
- Department of Geography, The University of Utah, 260 Central Campus Dr #4625, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - William J Neal
- Department of Geology, Grand Valley State University, Seymour K. & Esther R. Padnos Hall of Science 213A, Allendale, MI, USA
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Mohan Viswanathan P, Mishra A, Singam DR, John J. Assessment of microplastics in highland rock salts of Northern Borneo. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 368:122207. [PMID: 39180824 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.122207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 08/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024]
Abstract
Mountain salts produced from the highland region in NE Sarawak have a market value and also provide basic income to the communities. During the salt-making process, microplastics (MPs) may enter into commercial table salts from various sources, which has not been explored yet. Hence, the current research investigates the presence of MPs in the rock salts produced from the highland saline water in two different locations (L1 and L2) in NE Sarawak. Among the brine water and rock salt samples analysed, the highest concentrations of MPs were detected from the salt samples. It has been revealed that both the water and salt samples have the highest concentration of MPs occurring within the size range of 1-1000 μm. Transparent MPs are the most common colour observed in both salt and water samples, followed by white, blue, red, and black. The most prevalent shapes of MPs are fibers, which account for almost 47% in water samples and 87% in salt samples. Based on the ATR-FTIR study, polyethylene (PE) is the most prevalent polymer observed in salt samples, followed by polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). In water samples, PP is the most dominating polymer, followed by PE and PS. Through SEM microphotographs, fiber-type MPs have smooth surfaces, fragment-type MPs have rough edges, and sheet-type MPs have layered surfaces. EDX analysis revealed that carbon (C) and oxygen (O) are the most abundant elements, followed by aluminium (Al) and sodium (Na) in MPs. Based on the results, it is inferred that the MPs in the rock salts are mainly sourced from the different stages of salt-making production. This preliminary study shed light on the presence and characteristics of MPs in rock salts in this region. The research outcomes could support sustainable management plans to improve the salt quality and enhance the market value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prasanna Mohan Viswanathan
- Department of Applied Sciences, Faculty of Engineering and Science, Curtin University Malaysia, CDT 250, 98009 Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia.
| | - Anshuman Mishra
- Department of Applied Sciences, Faculty of Engineering and Science, Curtin University Malaysia, CDT 250, 98009 Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Dayarnan Raj Singam
- Department of Applied Sciences, Faculty of Engineering and Science, Curtin University Malaysia, CDT 250, 98009 Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Jaithish John
- Department of Mineral and Geoscience Malaysia, Jabatan Mineral Dan Geosains, Sarawak, Malaysia
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Choudhury TR, Riad S, Uddin FJ, Maksud MA, Alam MA, Chowdhury AMS, Mubin AN, Islam ARMT, Malafaia G. Microplastics in multi-environmental compartments: Research advances, media, and global management scenarios. JOURNAL OF CONTAMINANT HYDROLOGY 2024; 265:104379. [PMID: 38851130 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconhyd.2024.104379] [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: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
During the past decades, microplastics (MPs) have become an emerging concern due to their persistence and potential environmental threat. MP pollution has become so drastic that it has been found in the human food chain, breast milk, polar regions, and even the Himalayan basin, lake, etc. Inflammation, pulmonary hypertension, vascular occlusions, increased coagulability and blood cell cytotoxicity, disruption of immune function, neurotoxicity, and neurodegenerative diseases can all be brought on by severe microplastic exposure. Although many MPs studies have been performed on single environmental compartments, MPs in multi-environmental compartments have yet to be explored fully. This review aims to summarize the muti-environmental media, detection tools, and global management scenarios of MPs. The study revealed that MPs could significantly alter C flow through the soil-plant system, the structure and metabolic status of the microbial community, soil pH value, biomass of plant shoots and roots, chlorophyll, leaf C and N contents, and root N contents. This review reveals that MPs may negatively affect many C-dependent soil functions. Different methods have been developed to detect the MPs from these various environmental sources, including microscopic observation, density separation, Raman, and FT-IR analysis. Several articles have focused on MPs in individual environmental sources with a developed evaluation technique. This review revealed the extensive impacts of MPs on soil-plant systems, microbial communities, and soil functions, especially on water, suggesting possible disturbances to vital ecological processes. Furthermore, the broad range of detection methods explored emphasizes the significance of reliable analytical techniques in precisely evaluating levels of MP contamination in various environmental media. This paper critically discusses MPs' sources, occurrences, and global management scenarios in all possible environmental media and ecological health impacts. Future research opportunities and required sustainable strategies have also been suggested from Bangladesh and international perspectives based on challenges faced due to MP's pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tasrina Rabia Choudhury
- Analytical Chemistry Laboratory, Chemistry Division, Atomic Energy Center Dhaka, Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh.
| | - Syed Riad
- Department of Applied Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Foyez Jalal Uddin
- Department of Applied Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - M A Maksud
- Analytical Chemistry Laboratory, Chemistry Division, Atomic Energy Center Dhaka, Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | - M Abbas Alam
- Department of Applied Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh; Bangladesh Accreditation Board, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | | | - Al-Nure Mubin
- Department of Disaster Management, Begum Rokeya University, Rangpur 5400, Bangladesh
| | - Abu Reza Md Towfiqul Islam
- Department of Disaster Management, Begum Rokeya University, Rangpur 5400, Bangladesh; Department of Development Studies, Daffodil International University, Dhaka 1216, Bangladesh.
| | - Guilherme Malafaia
- Post-Graduation Program in Conservation of Cerrado Natural Resources, Goiano Federal Institute, Urutaí, GO, Brazil; Post-Graduation Program in Ecology, Conservation, and Biodiversity, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil; Post-Graduation Program in Biotechnology and Biodiversity, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil.
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Duncan TV, Khan SA, Patri AK, Wiggins S. Regulatory Science Perspective on the Analysis of Microplastics and Nanoplastics in Human Food. Anal Chem 2024; 96:4343-4358. [PMID: 38452774 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.3c05408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics are increasingly reported, not only in the environment but also in a wide range of food commodities. While studies on microplastics in food abound, the current state of science is limited in its application to regulatory risk assessment by a continued lack of standardized definitions, reference materials, sample collection and preparation procedures, fit-for purpose analytical methods for real-world and environmentally relevant plastic mixtures, and appropriate quality controls. This is particularly the case for nanoplastics. These methodological challenges hinder robust, quantitative exposure assessments of microplastic and nanoplastic mixtures from food consumption. Furthermore, limited toxicological studies on whether microplastics and nanoplastics adversely impact human health are also impeded by methodology challenges. Food safety regulatory agencies must consider both the exposure and the risk of contaminants of emerging concern to ascertain potential harm. Foundational to this effort is access to and application of analytical methods with the capability to quantify and characterize micro- and nanoscale sized polymers in complex food matrices. However, the early stages of method development and application of early stage methods to study the distribution and potential health effects of microplastics and nanoplastics in food have largely been done without consideration of the stringent requirements of methods to inform regulatory activities. We provide regulatory science perspectives on the state of knowledge regarding the occurrence of microplastics and nanoplastics in food and present our general approach for developing, validating, and implementing analytical methods for regulatory purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy V Duncan
- Division of Food Processing Science and Technology, Office of Food Safety, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, United States Food and Drug Administration, Bedford Park, Illinois 60501, United States
| | - Sadia Afrin Khan
- Division of Analytical Chemistry, Office of Regulatory Science, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, United States Food and Drug Administration, College Park, Maryland 20740, United States
| | - Anil K Patri
- Nanotechnology Core Facility, Office of Scientific Coordination, National Center for Toxicological Research, United States Food and Drug Administration, Jefferson, Arkansas 72029, United States
| | - Stacey Wiggins
- Division of Seafood Safety, Office of Food Safety, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, United States Food and Drug Administration, College Park, Maryland 20740, United States
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Hasanah U, Amqam H, Septami ARE, Chalid M, Aris AZ. Plasticizing Pregnancy: Microplastics Identified in Expectant Mothers' Feces. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH INSIGHTS 2024; 18:11786302241235810. [PMID: 38476841 PMCID: PMC10929056 DOI: 10.1177/11786302241235810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Introduction Microplastics may be present in food and drinks from various sources, exposing pregnant women to these particles. Consumption of contaminated food can lead to the ingestion of microplastics by pregnant women, potentially causing adverse health effects on the fetus. This study aims to investigate the presence of microplastics in the stools of pregnant women. Methods The research was conducted in the Makassar City region of South Sulawesi, Indonesia. Thirty healthy pregnant women from 2 community health centers, Pattingalloang and Jumpandang Baru, participated in the study. Their stools were analyzed using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) microspectroscopy to detect the presence of microplastics. Result The analysis revealed the presence of a total of 359 microplastics in the participants' stools, with particle counts ranging from 4 to 21 and sizes ranging from 0.2 to 4.9 mm per 25 g of stool. The polymers identified included Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), Polyamide/Nylon, Polyethylene Chlorinated, HDPE, and Ethylene Propylene. The amount of microplastics varied significantly among groups with different levels of seafood consumption. Conclusion Indonesian pregnant women have been exposed to some microplastic polymers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uswatun Hasanah
- Department of Enviromental Health, Faculty of Public Health, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, South Sulawesi, Indonesia
| | - Hasnawati Amqam
- Department of Enviromental Health, Faculty of Public Health, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, South Sulawesi, Indonesia
| | | | - Maisuri Chalid
- Department of Obstetric and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Hasanuddin University, South Sulawesi, Indonesia
| | - Ahmad Zaharin Aris
- Department of Environment, Faculty of Forestry and Environment, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
- International Institute of Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
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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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Mubin AN, Islam ARMT, Hasan M, Islam MS, Ali MM, Siddique MAB, Alam MS, Rakib MRJ, Islam MS, Momtaz N, Senapathi V, Idris AM, Malafaia G. The path of microplastics through the rare biodiversity estuary region of the northern Bay of Bengal. JOURNAL OF CONTAMINANT HYDROLOGY 2024; 260:104271. [PMID: 38056088 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconhyd.2023.104271] [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: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Due to its harmful effects on ecosystems and human health, microplastic (MP) pollution has become a significant environmental problem on a global scale. Although MPs' pollution path and toxic effects on marine habitats have been examined worldwide, the studies are limited to the rare biodiversity estuary region of Hatiya Island from the northern Bay of Bengal. This study aimed to investigate the MP pollution path and its influencing factors in estuarine sediments and water in rare biodiversity Hatiya Island in the northern Bay of Bengal. Sixty water and sediment samples were collected from 10 sampling sites on the Island and analyzed for MPs. The abundance of MPs in sediment ranged from 67 to 143 pieces/kg, while the abundance in water ranged from 24.34 to 59 pieces/m3. The average concentrations of MPs in sediment and water were 110.90 ± 20.62 pieces/kg and 38.77 ± 10.09 pieces/m3, respectively. Most identified MPs from sediment samples were transparent (51%), while about 54.1% of the identified MPs from water samples were colored. The fragment was the most common form of MP in both compartments, with a value of 64.6% in sediment samples and 60.6% in water samples. In sediment and water samples, almost 74% and 80% of MP were <0.5 mm, respectively. Polypropylene (PP) was the most abundant polymer type, accounting for 51% of all identified polymers. The contamination factor, pollution load index, polymer risk score, and pollution risk score values indicated that the study area was moderately polluted with MPs. The spatial distribution patterns and hotspots of MPs echoed profound human pathways. Based on the results, sustainable management strategies and intervention measures were proposed to reduce the pollution level in the ecologically diverse area. This study provides important insights into evaluating estuary ecosystem susceptibility and mitigation policies against persistent MP issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Al-Nure Mubin
- Department of Disaster Management, Begum Rokeya University, Rangpur 5400, Bangladesh
| | - Abu Reza Md Towfiqul Islam
- Department of Disaster Management, Begum Rokeya University, Rangpur 5400, Bangladesh; Department of Development Studies, Daffodil International University, Dhaka 1216, Bangladesh.
| | - Mehedi Hasan
- Department of Disaster Management, Begum Rokeya University, Rangpur 5400, Bangladesh
| | - Md Saiful Islam
- Department of Soil Science, Patuakhali Science and Technology University, Dumki, Patuakhali 8602, Bangladesh
| | - Mir Mohammad Ali
- Department of Aquaculture, Sher - e - Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka 1207, Bangladesh
| | - Md Abu Bakar Siddique
- Institute of National Analytical Research and Service (INARS), Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR), Dhanmondi, Dhaka 1205, Bangladesh
| | - Md Sha Alam
- Institute of Mining, Mineralogy & Metallurgy (IMMM), Bangladesh Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (BCSIR), Joypurhat 5900, Bangladesh
| | - Md Refat Jahan Rakib
- Department of Fisheries and Marine Science, Faculty of Science, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, Bangladesh
| | - Muhammad Saiful Islam
- Fiber and Polymer Research Division, BCSIR Laboratories Dhaka, Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR), Dhanmondi, Dhaka 1205, Bangladesh
| | - Nasima Momtaz
- Biological Research Division, BCSIR Laboratories Dhaka, Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR), Dhanmondi, Dhaka 1205, Bangladesh
| | | | - Abubakr M Idris
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, King Khalid University, Abha 62529, Saudi Arabia; Research Center for Advanced Materials Science (RCAMS), King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Guilherme Malafaia
- Post-Graduation Program in Conservation of Cerrado Natural Resources, Goiano Federal Institute, Goiânia, GO, Brazil; Post-Graduation Program in Ecology, Conservation, and Biodiversity, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil; Post-Graduation Program in Biotechnology and Biodiversity, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil.
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Hammodat AR, Nassar S, Mortula MM, Shamsuzzaman M. Factors affecting the leaching of micro and nanoplastics in the water distribution system. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 345:118779. [PMID: 37586171 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.118779] [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: 03/26/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
The role of the water distribution system (WDS) requires that it supply water of sufficient quality to households. Unregulated leaching of micro and nanoplastics from plastic pipes of the distribution system is therefore a cause for concern, particularly with the rise in research associating these plastic particles to adverse health impacts in living organisms. Within this study, four parameters (pH, free chlorine concentration, pipe material, and time) were varied in a pipe loop network to observe their effect on microplastic (MP) and nanoplastic (NP) leaching into the simulated distribution network. Results indicated an abundance of MPs/NPs in different shapes and sizes throughout the samples. Graphical trends illustrated that basic pH values contributed to a higher number of particles. Statistical analysis via analysis of variance (ANOVA) confirmed this observation and further showed interaction of chlorine dose and pH concentration (p-value = 0.000), and chlorine dose and pipe material (p-value = 0.038) was also significant to leaching. Numerically, polyethylene (PE) particles were the most abundant with a total of 15194 particles, followed by 12920 polypropylene random copolymer (PPR) particles and 12317 polyvinyl chloride (PVC) particles. It was also noticed that the number of particles decreased with time.© 2023 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amina Rayan Hammodat
- American University of Sharjah, University City, 26666, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Shumayal Nassar
- American University of Sharjah, University City, 26666, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Md Maruf Mortula
- American University of Sharjah, University City, 26666, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.
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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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Nguyen TLH, Duong TL, Nguyen THT, Dang TQ, Nguyen TH, Dao NN, Nguyen KT, Duong CD, Pham NN, Nguyen BQ. Microplastics and trace metals in river sediment: Prevalence and correlation with multiple factors. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 895:165145. [PMID: 37385491 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs), which are ubiquitous, are no longer novel emerging pollutants, yet our knowledge of them is insufficient. This study investigates the prevalence of MPs and trace metals in sediment belonging to Ma River, Vietnam, and their interaction with various parameters, including nutrients such as total carbon (TC), total nitrogen (TN), and total phosphorus (TP), grain sizes, and MPs in surface water. The study revealed that the abundance of MPs in sediment (MPs/S) is relatively high (i.e., 1328.3 ± 1925.5 items.kg-1 dry weight), while the concentration of MPs in surface water (MPs/W) was relatively low (i.e., 57.3 ± 55.8 items.m-3) compared to other areas. Notably, the study found that arsenic and cadmium concentrations exceeded baseline levels, indicating their anthropogenic origin. To interpret the relationship between MPs/S, metals, and the aforementioned parameters, principal component analysis and Pearson correlation analyses were employed. The results demonstrated a significant correlation between metals and nutrients, as well as small grain sizes such as clay and silt. It was observed that the majority of metals displayed co-occurrence with one another but showed weak associations with the levels of MPs present in both water and sediment. Additionally, a weak correlation was observed between MPs/W and MPs/S. In conclusion, these findings suggest that the distribution and behavior of MPs and trace metals in aquatic systems are influenced by multiple factors, including nutrient levels, grain size, and other chemical and physical characteristics of the environment. While certain metals may have natural sources, others may result from human activities such as mining, industrial discharge, and wastewater treatment plants. As a result, understanding the sources and aspects of metal contamination are critical for determining their relationship with MPs and developing effective strategies for mitigating their impact on aquatic ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thi Lan Huong Nguyen
- Institute of Geography, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Cau Giay, Hanoi 100000, Viet Nam
| | - Thi Lim Duong
- Institute of Geography, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Cau Giay, Hanoi 100000, Viet Nam
| | - Thi Huong Thuy Nguyen
- Institute of Geography, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Cau Giay, Hanoi 100000, Viet Nam
| | - Tran Quan Dang
- Institute of Geography, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Cau Giay, Hanoi 100000, Viet Nam
| | - Thi Hue Nguyen
- Institute of Geography, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Cau Giay, Hanoi 100000, Viet Nam
| | - Ngoc Nhiem Dao
- Graduate University of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Cau Giay, Hanoi 100000, Viet Nam; Institute of Materials Science, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Cau Giay, Hanoi 100000, Viet Nam
| | - Kien Trung Nguyen
- Institute of Materials Science, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Cau Giay, Hanoi 100000, Viet Nam
| | - Cong Dien Duong
- Institute of Mechanics, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 264 Doi Can, Ba Dinh, Hanoi 100000, Viet Nam
| | - Ngo Nghia Pham
- Faculty of Chemistry, VNU University of Science, 19 Le Thanh Tong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi 100000, Viet Nam
| | - Bac Quang Nguyen
- Graduate University of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Cau Giay, Hanoi 100000, Viet Nam; Institute of Materials Science, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Cau Giay, Hanoi 100000, Viet Nam.
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Bostan N, Ilyas N, Akhtar N, Mehmood S, Saman RU, Sayyed RZ, Shatid AA, Alfaifi MY, Elbehairi SEI, Pandiaraj S. Toxicity assessment of microplastic (MPs); a threat to the ecosystem. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 234:116523. [PMID: 37422115 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023]
Abstract
Plastic is now considered part and parcel of daily life due to its extensive usage. Microplastic (MP) pollution is becoming a growing worry and has been ranked as the second most critical scientific problem in the realm of ecology and the environment. Microplastics are smaller in size than the plastic and are more harmful to biotic and as well as abiotic environments. The toxicity of microplastic depends upon its shape and size and increases with an increase in its adsorption capacity and their toxicity. The reason behind their harmful nature is their small size and their large surface area-to-volume ratio. Microplastic can get inside fruits, vegetables, seeds, roots, culms, and leaves. Hence microplastic enters into the food chain. There are different entry points for microplastic to enter into the food chain. Such sources can include polluted food, beverages, spices, plastic toys, and household (packing, cooking, etc.). The concentration of microplastic in terrestrial environments is increasing day by day. Microplastic causes the destruction of soil structure; destroys soil microbiota, cause depletion of nutrients in the soil, and their absorption by plants decreases plant growth. Apart from other environmental problems caused by microplastic, human health is also badly affected by microplastic pollution present in the terrestrial environment. The presence of microplastics in the human body has been confirmed. Microplastic enters into the body of humans in different possible ways. According to their way of entering the body, microplastics cause different diseases in humans. MPs also cause negative effects on the human endocrine system. At the ecosystem level, the impacts of microplastic are interconnected and can disrupt ecological processes. Although recently different papers have been published on several aspects of the microplastic present in the terrestrial environment but there is no complete overview that focus on the interrelationship of MPs in plants, and soil and their effect on higher animals like a human. This review provides a completely detailed overview of existing knowledge about sources, occurrences, transport, and effects of microplastic on the food chain and soil quality and their ecotoxicological effects on plants and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nageen Bostan
- Department of Botany, PMAS Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi, 46300, Pakistan.
| | - Noshin Ilyas
- Department of Botany, PMAS Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi, 46300, Pakistan.
| | - Nosheen Akhtar
- Department of Botany, PMAS Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi, 46300, Pakistan.
| | - Sabiha Mehmood
- Department of Botany, PMAS Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi, 46300, Pakistan.
| | - Rafia Urooj Saman
- Department of Botany University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Pakistan.
| | - R Z Sayyed
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, INTI International University, 71800, Nilai, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia.
| | - Ali A Shatid
- Biology Department, Faculty of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, 9004, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Mohammad Y Alfaifi
- Biology Department, Faculty of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, 9004, Saudi Arabia.
| | | | - Saravanan Pandiaraj
- Department of Self-Development Skills, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia.
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12
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Shankar VS, Purti N, Ramakrishnan S, Kaviarasan T, Satyakeerthy TR, Jacob S. A new hotspot of macro-litter in the Rutland Island, South Andaman, India: menace from IORC. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023:10.1007/s11356-023-28024-8. [PMID: 37322394 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-28024-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Supralittoral zones of 13 sandy beaches of remote Rutland Island were divided into three zones to identify the litter contamination, its source, pathway of plastic transport to determine the level of macro-litter contamination, and its impact on coastal biota. Owing to the floral and faunal diversity, apart of the study area is protected under Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park (MGMNP). The supralittoral zones of each sandy beach (between low-tide and high-tide line) were individually calculated from 2021 Landsat-8 satellite imagery before conducting the field survey. The total area of the surveyed beaches was 0.52 km2 (5,20,020.79 m2), and 317,565 litters representing 27 distinct litter types were enumerated. Two beaches in Zone-II and six in Zone-III were clean; however, all five in Zone-I were very dirty. The highest litter density (1.03 items/m2) was observed in Photo Nallah 1 and Photo Nallah 2, whereas the lowest (0.09 items/m2) was observed in Jahaji Beach. According to the Clean Coast Index (CCI), Jahaji Beach (Zone-III) is the very cleanest beach (1.74) while other beaches of Zone-II and Zone-III are clean. The findings of the Plastic Abundance Index (PAI) indicate that Zone-II and Zone-III beaches have a low abundance of plastics (< 1), while two beaches of Zone-I, viz., Katla Dera and Dhani Nallah, exhibited a moderate abundance of plastics (< 4) while a high abundance of plastics (< 8) was observed in the rest of three beaches of the same zone. The primary contributor of litter on Rutland's beaches was plastic polymers (60-99%), which were presumed to originate from the Indian Ocean Rim Countries (IORC). A collective litter management initiative by the IORC is essential in preventing littering on remote islands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Venkatesan Shiva Shankar
- Department of Coastal Disaster Management, Pondicherry University, Brookshabad Campus, Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, 744112, India.
- Faculty of Environment Science, ANCOL, Chakargaon, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, 744112, India.
| | - Neelam Purti
- Department of Environment and Forest, Manglutan Range, South Andaman Forest Division, Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, 744105, India
| | - Sivasankar Ramakrishnan
- Applied Research Center for Environment and Marine Studies, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Dhahran, 31261, Saudi Arabia
| | - Thanamegam Kaviarasan
- National Centre for Coastal Research (NCCR), Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of India, NIOT Campus, Pallikaranai, Chennai, 600100, India
| | | | - Sunil Jacob
- Department of Chemistry, Catholicate College, Mahatma Gandhi University, Pathanamthitta, 689695, India
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13
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Rangel-Buitrago N, Ochoa FL, Rodríguez RDB, Moreno JB, Trilleras J, Arana VA, Neal WJ. Decoding plastic pollution in the geological record: A baseline study on the Caribbean Coast of Colombia, north South America. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 192:114993. [PMID: 37167662 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.114993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
This study presents the first report of plastics in the geological record (rocks and formations composed of plastics) along the central Caribbean Coast of Colombia, northern coast of South America. These novel records of pollution include two rock types (plastiglomerates and quartz plastisandstones), two altered plastic types (pyroplastics and plasticrusts), two soil types (plasticlasts and anthrosols), and a series of artifacts (fossils) found near human settlements. All of them were analyzed using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Polyester, high-density polyethylene, and copolymers of alkyl acrylates or methacrylates were identified as the principal polymers forming these rocks. This research provides new insights into the petrology of these emerging new forms of pollution, for which humans are primarily responsible for their generation and distribution. Similarly, the results presented emphasize that plastics are generating a deluge of pollutants in terms of variety and volume, overwhelming natural environments globally. Controlling or even eliminating their use has become one of the most significant challenges of the 21st Century.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nelson Rangel-Buitrago
- Programa de Física, Facultad de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad del Atlántico, Barranquilla, Atlántico, Colombia.
| | - Felipe Lamus Ochoa
- Departamento de Física y Geociencias, Division de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad del Norte, Barranquilla, Atlántico, Colombia
| | - Rubén Darío Beltrán Rodríguez
- Departamento de Física y Geociencias, Division de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad del Norte, Barranquilla, Atlántico, Colombia
| | - Jose Brito Moreno
- Departamento de Física y Geociencias, Division de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad del Norte, Barranquilla, Atlántico, Colombia
| | - Jorge Trilleras
- Programa de Maestría en Ciencias Químicas, Facultad de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad del Atlántico, Puerto Colombia, Atlántico, Colombia; Programa de Química, Facultad de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad del Atlántico, Puerto Colombia, Atlántico, Colombia
| | - Victoria Andrea Arana
- Programa de Maestría en Ciencias Químicas, Facultad de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad del Atlántico, Puerto Colombia, Atlántico, Colombia; Programa de Química, Facultad de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad del Atlántico, Puerto Colombia, Atlántico, Colombia
| | - William J Neal
- Department of Geology, Grand Valley State University, The Seymour K. & Esther R. Padnos Hall of Science 213A, Allendale, MI, USA
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14
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Thiele CJ, Grange LJ, Haggett E, Hudson MD, Hudson P, Russell AE, Zapata-Restrepo LM. Microplastics in European sea salts - An example of exposure through consumer choice and of interstudy methodological discrepancies. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 255:114782. [PMID: 36934543 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.114782] [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: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are contaminants of emerging concern, not least due to their global presence in marine surface waters. Unsurprisingly, microplastics have been reported in salts harvested from numerous locations. We extracted microplastics from 13 European sea salts through 30% H2O2 digestion and filtration over 5-µm filters. Filters were visually inspected at magnifications to x100. A subsample of potential microplastics was subjected to Raman spectroscopy. Particle mass was estimated, and human dose exposure calculated. After blank corrections, median concentrations were 466 ± 152 microplastics kg-1 ranging from 74 to 1155 items kg-1. Traditionally harvested salts contained fewer microplastics than most industrially harvested ones (t-test, p < 0.01). Approximately 14 µg of microplastics (< 12 particles) may be absorbed by the human body annually, of which a quarter may derive from a consumer choosing sea salt. We reviewed existing studies, showing that targeting different particle sizes and incomplete filtrations hinder interstudy comparison, indicating the importance of method harmonisation for future studies. Excess salt consumption is detrimental to human health; the hazardousness of ingesting microplastics on the other hand has yet to be shown. A portion of microplastics may enter sea salts through production processes rather than source materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina J Thiele
- Centre for Environmental Science, Faculty of Environment and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, University Road, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK.
| | - Laura J Grange
- School of Ocean and Earth Science, Faculty of Environment and Life Sciences, University of Southampton Waterfront Campus, European Way, Southampton SO14 3ZH, UK; Currently at School of Ocean Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 2DG, UK
| | - Emily Haggett
- Centre for Environmental Science, Faculty of Environment and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, University Road, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
| | - Malcolm D Hudson
- Centre for Environmental Science, Faculty of Environment and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, University Road, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
| | - Philippa Hudson
- Philippa Hudson, Bournemouth University, Talbot Campus, Fern Barrow, Poole BH12 5BB, UK
| | - Andrea E Russell
- School of Chemistry, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of Southampton, University Road, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
| | - Lina M Zapata-Restrepo
- Centre for Environmental Science, Faculty of Environment and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, University Road, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
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15
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Özçifçi Z, Basaran B, Akçay HT. Microplastic contamination and risk assessment in table salts: Turkey. Food Chem Toxicol 2023; 175:113698. [PMID: 36889431 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2023.113698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
In this study, the characterization of microplastics of table salts (n = 36) was determined by FT - IR. Then, individuals' exposure to microplastics from table salt consumption was calculated with a deterministic model, and finally, a risk assessment of table salt was performed using the polymer risk index. On average, 44 ± 26, 38 ± 40, 28 ± 9, and 39 ± 30 microplastics/kg were detected in rock salts (n = 16), lake salts (n = 12), sea salts (n = 8), and all salts (n = 36). Microplastics with 10 different polymer types (CPE, VC-ANc, HDPE, PET, Nylon-6, PVAc, EVA, PP, PS, Polyester), 7 different colors (black, red, colorless, blue, green, brown, white, gray), and 3 different shapes (fiber, granulated, film) were found in table salts. The daily, annual and lifetime (70-year) exposures to microplastics from table salt consumption in 15+-year-old individuals (general) were calculated to be 0.41 microplastic particles/day, 150 microplastic particles/year and 10,424 microplastic particles/70-year, respectively. The average microplastic polymer risk index of all table salts was calculated as 182 ± 144 and the risk level is in the medium. In order to minimize microplastic contamination in table salts, protective measures should be taken at the source of the salt, and production processes should be improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zehra Özçifçi
- Department of Chemistry Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Recep Tayyip Erdogan University, Rize, 53100, Turkey
| | - Burhan Basaran
- Department of Tea Agriculture and Processing Technology, Pazar Vocational School, Recep Tayyip Erdogan University, Rize, 53100, Turkey.
| | - Hakkı Türker Akçay
- Department of Chemistry Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Recep Tayyip Erdogan University, Rize, 53100, Turkey
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16
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Islam MS, Hasan MR, Islam Z. Abundance, characteristics, and spatial-temporal distribution of microplastics in sea salts along the Cox's Bazar coastal area, Bangladesh. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:19994-20005. [PMID: 36242671 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-23596-3] [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: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs), together with microfibers, have emerged as a contaminant of concern all around the globe. MPs have been detected in freshwater, seawater, sediment, and aquatic species among others. As suggested by several recent investigations, sea salts, a daily intake item by humans, are also contaminated by MPs. The current article describes MPs' occurrence, distribution, type, and timeline variation in raw sea salts from Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh. MPs have been detected in every collected salt sample, and quantity varied from 28.53 ± 2.43 to 93.53 ± 4.21 particles per kg, which was about 52.48 ± 1.72 to 67.46 ± 3.81 µg/kg of raw salt. Microfibers were MPs' dominant shape category, and the plastic types were mainly polyester or nylon. Other types of MPs were polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polycarbonate (PC), polyurethane (PU), and polystyrene (PS) in decreasing amounts. The majority of the MPs in the sea salts were in the size range of ˂ 3-1 mm. The total amount of MPs and plastic-type variation due to sampling location (p ˃ 0.05) and because of the time period (p ˃ 0.05) was found insignificant. Acetaldehyde, a volatile toxic substance produced by the degradation of polyester polymer chains, was detected in MPs in the range of 0.37 to 1.72 µg/g by headspace GC-MS analysis. Hence, the sea salts contaminated with MPs pose a public health hazard. Microplastics extraction from sea salts and their characterization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Saiful Islam
- Fiber and Polymer Research Division, BCSIR Laboratories Dhaka, Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR), Dhaka, 1205, Bangladesh.
| | - Md Rashed Hasan
- Fiber and Polymer Research Division, BCSIR Laboratories Dhaka, Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR), Dhaka, 1205, Bangladesh
| | - Zahidul Islam
- Fiber and Polymer Research Division, BCSIR Laboratories Dhaka, Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR), Dhaka, 1205, Bangladesh
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17
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Kadac-Czapska K, Knez E, Gierszewska M, Olewnik-Kruszkowska E, Grembecka M. Microplastics Derived from Food Packaging Waste-Their Origin and Health Risks. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 16:674. [PMID: 36676406 PMCID: PMC9866676 DOI: 10.3390/ma16020674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Plastics are commonly used for packaging in the food industry. The most popular thermoplastic materials that have found such applications are polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET), and polystyrene (PS). Unfortunately, most plastic packaging is disposable. As a consequence, significant amounts of waste are generated, entering the environment, and undergoing degradation processes. They can occur under the influence of mechanical forces, temperature, light, chemical, and biological factors. These factors can present synergistic or antagonistic effects. As a result of their action, microplastics are formed, which can undergo further fragmentation and decomposition into small-molecule compounds. During the degradation process, various additives used at the plastics' processing stage can also be released. Both microplastics and additives can negatively affect human and animal health. Determination of the negative consequences of microplastics on the environment and health is not possible without knowing the course of degradation processes of packaging waste and their products. In this article, we present the sources of microplastics, the causes and places of their formation, the transport of such particles, the degradation of plastics most often used in the production of packaging for food storage, the factors affecting the said process, and its effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kornelia Kadac-Czapska
- Department of Bromatology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Gdańsk, 80-416 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Eliza Knez
- Department of Bromatology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Gdańsk, 80-416 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Magdalena Gierszewska
- Department of Physical Chemistry and Physicochemistry of Polymers, Faculty of Chemistry, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, 87-100 Toruń, Poland
| | - Ewa Olewnik-Kruszkowska
- Department of Physical Chemistry and Physicochemistry of Polymers, Faculty of Chemistry, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, 87-100 Toruń, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Grembecka
- Department of Bromatology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Gdańsk, 80-416 Gdańsk, Poland
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18
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Dao CD, Duong LT, Nguyen THT, Nguyen HLT, Nguyen HT, Dang QT, Dao NN, Pham CN, Nguyen CHT, Duong DC, Bui TT, Nguyen BQ. Plastic waste in sandy beaches and surface water in Thanh Hoa, Vietnam: abundance, characterization, and sources. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2023; 195:255. [PMID: 36592237 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-022-10868-1] [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: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The occurrence and characterization of marine debris on beaches bring opportunities to track back the anthropogenic activities around shorelines as well as aid in waste management and control. In this study, the three largest beaches in Thanh Hoa (Vietnam) were examined for plastic waste, including macroplastics (≥ 5 mm) on sandy beaches and microplastics (MPs) (< 5 mm) in surface water. Among 3803 items collected on the beaches, plastic waste accounted for more than 98%. The majority of the plastic wastes found on these beaches were derived from fishing boats and food preservation foam packaging. The FT-IR data indicated that the macroplastics comprised 77% polystyrene, 17% polypropylene, and 6% high-density polyethylene, while MPs discovered in surface water included other forms of plastics such as polyethylene- acrylate, styrene/butadiene rubber gasket, ethylene/propylene copolymer, and zein purified. FT-IR data demonstrated that MPs might also be originated from automobile tire wear, the air, and skincare products, besides being degraded from macroplastics. The highest abundance of MPs was 44.1 items/m3 at Hai Tien beach, while the lowest was 15.5 items/m3 at Sam Son beach. The results showed that fragment form was the most frequent MP shape, accounting for 61.4 ± 14.3% of total MPs. MPs with a diameter smaller than 500 μm accounted for 70.2 ± 7.6% of all MPs. According to our research, MPs were transformed, transported, and accumulated due to anthropogenic activities and environmental processes. This study provided a comprehensive knowledge of plastic waste, essential in devising long-term development strategies in these locations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cham Dinh Dao
- Institute of Geography, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Cau Giay, Hanoi, 100000, Vietnam
- Graduate University of Science and Technology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Cau Giay, Hanoi, 100000, Vietnam
| | - Lim Thi Duong
- Institute of Geography, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Cau Giay, Hanoi, 100000, Vietnam
| | - Thuy Huong Thi Nguyen
- Institute of Geography, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Cau Giay, Hanoi, 100000, Vietnam
| | - Huong Lan Thi Nguyen
- Institute of Geography, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Cau Giay, Hanoi, 100000, Vietnam
| | - Hue Thi Nguyen
- Institute of Geography, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Cau Giay, Hanoi, 100000, Vietnam
| | - Quan Tran Dang
- Institute of Geography, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Cau Giay, Hanoi, 100000, Vietnam
| | - Nhiem Ngoc Dao
- Graduate University of Science and Technology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Cau Giay, Hanoi, 100000, Vietnam
- Institute of Materials Science, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Cau Giay, Hanoi, 100000, Vietnam
| | - Chuc Ngoc Pham
- Institute of Materials Science, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Cau Giay, Hanoi, 100000, Vietnam
| | - Chi Ha Thi Nguyen
- Institute of Materials Science, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Cau Giay, Hanoi, 100000, Vietnam
| | - Dien Cong Duong
- Institute of Mechanics, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Hanoi, 100000, Vietnam
| | - Thu Thi Bui
- Faculty of Environment, Hanoi University of Natural Resources and Environment, Hanoi, 100000, Vietnam
| | - Bac Quang Nguyen
- Graduate University of Science and Technology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Cau Giay, Hanoi, 100000, Vietnam.
- Institute of Materials Science, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Cau Giay, Hanoi, 100000, Vietnam.
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19
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Perera K, Ziajahromi S, Bengtson Nash S, Manage PM, Leusch FDL. Airborne Microplastics in Indoor and Outdoor Environments of a Developing Country in South Asia: Abundance, Distribution, Morphology, and Possible Sources. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2022; 56:16676-16685. [PMID: 36441558 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c05885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Airborne microplastics (AMPs) have been reported in indoor and outdoor air in high-income countries and are expected to be a significant contributor to daily microplastic (MP) exposure for human beings. To date, there are only a handful of studies in lower-middle-income countries. In this study, AMPs from 5000 to 50 μm were sampled across selected areas of Sri Lanka using an active sampling technique. Suspected AMPs were further characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. MP concentrations were higher indoors compared to outdoor air (0.13-0.93, compared to 0.00-0.23 particles/m3, respectively). The types of indoor MPs were related to indoor-generating sources, and the occupant's lifestyles. The highest outdoor MP abundance was found near an industrial zone, followed by urban and inland locations in high-density areas. The dominant size range of MPs was 100-300 μm, and the only shapes observed indoors and outdoors were fibers (98%) and fragments. Polyethylene terephthalate was the most prominent MP type, followed by polyester, indicating that textile fibers could be the major source of these AMPs. This study provides the first report on AMPs in Sri Lanka. Considering population growth and industrialization, further research should evaluate possible trends and health risks upon inhalation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kushani Perera
- Australian Rivers Institute, School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Southport Qld 4222, Australia
| | - Shima Ziajahromi
- Australian Rivers Institute, School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Southport Qld 4222, Australia
| | - Susan Bengtson Nash
- Centre for Planetary Health and Food Security, School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Southport Qld 4222, Australia
| | - Pathmalal M Manage
- Centre for Water Quality and Algae Research, Department of Zoology, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Gangodawila, Nugegoda 10250, Sri Lanka
| | - Frederic D L Leusch
- Australian Rivers Institute, School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Southport Qld 4222, Australia
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20
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Rangel-Buitrago N, Neal W, Williams A. The Plasticene: Time and rocks. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 185:114358. [PMID: 36401945 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.114358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Plastics, "yesterday's hero... today's villain" or "the contemporary symbol of modernity," were invented in the early 20th century by Leo Hendrik Baekeland from macromolecules (resins, elastomers, and artificial fibres) of formaldehyde and phenol. This synthetic organic polymer took hold of daily human life and transformed the modern world with an ever-widening range of applications. Plastics are the third most-widely manufactured material in the world after cement and steel, and they have become widespread in our society with excessive production and consumption to meet demand. Plastics use is so dominant that they are inappropriately considered essential in the world consumers marketplace. Plastics are a clear indicator of the Anthropocene and can be considered the marker of the upper subdivision of this stage: the Plasticene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nelson Rangel-Buitrago
- Programas de Física y Biologia, Facultad de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad del Atlántico, Barranquilla, Atlántico, Colombia.
| | - William Neal
- Department of Geology, Grand Valley State University, The Seymour K. & Esther R. Padnos Hall of Science 213A, Allendale, MI, USA
| | - Allan Williams
- Faculty of Architecture, Computing and Engineering, University of Wales: Trinity Saint David (Swansea), SA1 6ED Mount Pleasant, Swansea, Wales, United Kingdom
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21
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Udovicki B, Andjelkovic M, Cirkovic-Velickovic T, Rajkovic A. Microplastics in food: scoping review on health effects, occurrence, and human exposure. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FOOD CONTAMINATION 2022. [DOI: 10.1186/s40550-022-00093-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
AbstractWith most of the plastics ever produced now being waste, slowly degrading and fragmenting in the environment, microplastics (MPs) have become an emerging concern regarding their presence in food and influence on human health. While many studies on marine ecotoxicology and the occurrence of MPs in fish and shellfish exist, research on the occurrence of MPs in other foods and their effect on human health is still in early-stage, but the attention is increasing. This review aimed to provide relevant information on the possible health effect of ingested MPs, the occurrence, and levels of MPs contamination in various foods and estimated exposure to MPs through food. Potential toxic consequences from exposure to MPs through food can arise from MPs themselves, diffused monomers and additives but also from sorbed contaminants or microorganisms that colonise MPs. Recent publications have confirmed widespread contamination of our food with MPs including basic and life-essential constituents such as water and salt providing the basis for chronic exposure. Available exposure assessments indicate that we ingest up to several hundred thousand MPs particles yearly.
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Abstract
Plastic waste pollution is one of the biggest problems in the world today. The amount of plastic in the environment continues to increase, and human exposure to microplastic (MP) has become a reality. This subject has attracted the attention of the whole world. The MP problem has also been noticed by the scientific community. The term microplastic is mostly used to define synthetic material with a high polymer content that can have a size range from 0.1 to 5000 µm. This paper aims to characterize the routes of exposure to MP, define its pollution sources, and identify food types contaminated with plastics. This review addresses the current state of knowledge on this type of particles, with particular emphasis on their influence on human health. Adverse effects of MP depend on routes and sources of exposure. The most common route of exposure is believed to be the gastrointestinal tract. Sources of MP include fish, shellfish, water as well as tea, beer, wine, energy drinks, soft drinks, milk, salt, sugar, honey, poultry meat, fruits, and vegetables. Studies have shown that particles of PET, PE, PP, PS, PVC, PA, and PC are the most frequently found in food.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kornelia Kadac-Czapska
- Department of Bromatology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Eliza Knez
- Department of Bromatology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Grembecka
- Department of Bromatology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
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Afrin S, Rahman MM, Akbor MA, Siddique MAB, Uddin MK, Malafaia G. Is there tea complemented with the appealing flavor of microplastics? A pioneering study on plastic pollution in commercially available tea bags in Bangladesh. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 837:155833. [PMID: 35561914 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.155833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution is a global concern, mainly due to its adverse effects on organisms and ecosystems. However, our knowledge of its impact on humans, in particular, is still very limited. Thus, while we have not gathered definitive information on their consequences, studies that aim to identify the MP's sources constitute subsidies to better understand the various exposure pathways to these pollutants. Thus, we investigated the possible presence of MP-like particles in teabag samples (of different brands) obtained in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Surprisingly, all analyzed samples (five brands) were contaminated with MPs. Fragments and fibers were identified in a higher percentage, and a wide variety of colors was identified, with a predominance of brown, blue, and red colors. Scanning electron microscope images of teabags exhibited net-like structures of fiber particles with a smooth surface. Furthermore, we observed irregularly shaped MPs and rougher surfaces and fragments in the process of detachment from the main fiber, oxidation flakes, and fracture-like. The average size of these pollutants was between 200.6 and 220.7 μm, and the polymer types identified via Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) were polytetrafluoroethylene, high-density polyethylene, polycarbonate, nylon, polyvinyl chloride, polytetrafluoroethylene, ethylene-vinyl acetate, cellulose acetate, and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, the last three being the most frequent in the analyzed samples. Finally, we noticed that MPs from tea bags in Dhaka could cause an average emission of 10.9 million grams of MPs/year. Although the teabags analyzed in our study are not "complemented with the appealing flavor of MPs", it is very likely that tea ingestion in Dhaka is accompanied by the concomitant ingestion of plastic particles making teabags an important route of human exposure to these micropollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadia Afrin
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Jahangirnagar University, Dhaka 1342, Bangladesh
| | - Md Mostafizur Rahman
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Jahangirnagar University, Dhaka 1342, Bangladesh; Laboratory of Environmental Health and Ecotoxicology, Department of Environmental Sciences, Jahangirnagar University, Dhaka 1342, Bangladesh.
| | - Md Ahedul Akbor
- Institute of National Analytical Research and Services (INARS), Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR), Dhanmondi, Dhaka-1205, Bangladesh
| | - Md Abu Bakar Siddique
- Institute of National Analytical Research and Services (INARS), Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR), Dhanmondi, Dhaka-1205, Bangladesh
| | - Md Khabir Uddin
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Jahangirnagar University, Dhaka 1342, Bangladesh
| | - Guilherme Malafaia
- Laboratory of Toxicology Applied to the Environment, Goiano Federal Institute, Urutaí, GO, Brazil; Post-Graduation Program in Conservation of Cerrado Natural Resources, Goiano Federal Institute, Urutaí, GO, Brazil; Post-Graduation Program in Ecology, Conservation, and Biodiversity, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil; Post-Graduation Programa in Biotechnology and Biodiversity, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil.
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Afrin S, Rahman MM, Hossain MN, Uddin MK, Malafaia G. Are there plastic particles in my sugar? A pioneering study on the characterization of microplastics in commercial sugars and risk assessment. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 837:155849. [PMID: 35561897 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.155849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Although several studies are confirming the ubiquity of microplastics (MPs) in environments, our knowledge about their effects on human health is still very limited. Therefore, while we have not gathered definitive information on their consequences, studies that aim to identify the MPs sources constitute subsidies to better understand the various exposure pathways to these pollutants. Thus, we investigated the possible presence of MP-like particles in five brands of commercial sugars and two unpacked, unbranded, and unlabeled sugars (hereinafter referred to as "non-branded"), obtained from different supermarkets in Dhaka (Bangladesh). Surprisingly, MPs-like particles were identified in all analyzed samples and taken together, our data demonstrated similar variations (between branded and non-branded samples) in terms of number, size, shape, color, and polymer composition. The number of plastic particles/kg sugar was, on average, 343.7 ± 32.08 (mean ± SEM), having been observed a tendency for a higher frequency of MPs < 300 μm. Overall, microfibers and spherules were the most and the predominant colors of MPs (in general) were black, pink, blue, and brown. The FT-IR analysis confirmed the chemical nature of MPs (in branded and non-branded), having identified nine polymeric types (ABS, PCV, PET, EVA, CA, PTFE, HDPE, PC, and nylon), being ABS and PVC the most frequent. Furthermore, we estimate that sugar consumption in Dhaka City can cause the ingestion of millions of tons of MPs annually (2.4 to 25.6 tons) (with an average of 10.2 tons). Our study is the most comprehensive report on the MP's occurrence in sugar, confirming that the ingestion of this food constitutes an important route of human exposure to these micropollutants and, therefore, serves as a baseline for future assessments and useful for generating efficient strategies to control MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadia Afrin
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Jahangirnagar University, Dhaka 1342, Bangladesh
| | - Md Mostafizur Rahman
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Jahangirnagar University, Dhaka 1342, Bangladesh; Laboratory of Environmental Health and Ecotoxicology, Department of Environmental Sciences, Jahangirnagar University, Dhaka 1342, Bangladesh.
| | - Md Nayon Hossain
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Jahangirnagar University, Dhaka 1342, Bangladesh
| | - Md Khabir Uddin
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Jahangirnagar University, Dhaka 1342, Bangladesh
| | - Guilherme Malafaia
- Laboratory of Toxicology Applied to the Environment, Goiano Federal Institute, Urutaí, GO, Brazil; Post-Graduation Program in Conservation of Cerrado Natural Resources, Goiano Federal Institute, Urutaí, GO, Brazil; Post-Graduation Program in Ecology, Conservation, and Biodiversity, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil; Post-Graduation Programa in Biotechnology and Biodiversity, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil.
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