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Application of Raman spectroscopy for the analysis of microplastics in food and beverages: a comprehensive review
Summary
This review analyzed 56 studies published over the past decade that used Raman spectroscopy to detect microplastics in food and beverages. Researchers found that while the technique is effective for identifying the size, shape, and chemical composition of microplastics, there is significant variation in how different labs conduct their analyses. The study calls for more standardized methods to enable reliable comparisons of microplastic contamination levels across different food products.
Microplastics (MPs) are almost ubiquitous, and humans are continuously exposed to them by ingestion. The potential health risk of these emerging contaminants is associated with the small size that allows them to enter and accumulate in tissues. In addition, their ability to absorb and transport well-known toxic pollutants enhances their potential danger. Among numerous techniques developed to detect MPs, Raman spectroscopy is a nondestructive one that has been successfully used for their morphological and chemical characterization. This review analyzes 56 papers published over the past 10 years reporting on the use of Raman spectroscopy to investigate MP content in food and beverages. The data collected were discussed to enlighten common patterns and elaborated to manage a better comparison. Finally, a proposal for standardization of methods, protocols, and modality of data presentation and quantification is put forward.