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Anthropogenic Debris in Bivalves Sold for Human Consumption in Northern California: A Cross-Sectional Follow-Up Study
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This follow-up cross-sectional study quantified anthropogenic debris in Pacific oysters sold at a Northern California market in 2023–2024 and compared results to a 2015 study from the same location, assessing whether contamination levels have changed over nearly a decade.
Abstract Microplastics have emerged as a major environmental concern due to their widespread presence and potential health impacts. Growing water contamination has raised concerns about its presence in seafood consumed by humans. In this single-center, cross-sectional study, we collected a sample of 10 Pacific oysters sold locally in Northern California. We compared microplastic content with a prior study performed at the same location in 2015 (Rochman et al.). Anthropogenic debris was extracted from the whole tissue of shellfish using a 10% KOH solution and quantified under a dissecting microscope. Microplastics were found in all ten samples (compared with 4/12 samples in 2015), from three to greater than 40 particles per sample. These anthropogenic debris were primarily filaments from 0.2 to 2 mm long. Our study findings suggest that microplastics in bivalves sold for human consumption have increased in the past ten years, with potential human health concerns.
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This study established baseline levels of microplastic contamination in Pacific oysters (Crassostrea gigas) grown for human consumption in a coastal aquaculture operation. Establishing baselines is essential for tracking changes in contamination over time and assessing the human health implications of eating contaminated shellfish.
Microplastics in Pacific Northwest Bivalves: Ecological Prevalence, Harvester-Consumer Exposure, and Aquarium Exhibit Outcomes
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Researchers quantified microplastics in Pacific oysters and razor clams from 15 coastal sites in Oregon, finding widespread contamination across the Pacific Northwest coast. The study also assessed exposure risks to seafood harvesters and consumers, contributing to understanding of how coastal plastic pollution reaches human food supplies.
Microplastic Concentrations in Two Oregon Bivalve Species: Spatial, Temporal, and Species Variability
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Pacific oysters and razor clams from Oregon were found to contain microplastics, with concentrations varying by species, location, and season. The findings have direct relevance for human health since both species are commercially harvested and consumed.
Anthropogenic debris in seafood: Plastic debris and fibers from textiles in fish and bivalves sold for human consumption
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Researchers examined fish and shellfish sold for human consumption in markets in Indonesia and California and found anthropogenic debris, including microplastic fibers and fragments, in every species tested. Fish tended to contain debris in their gastrointestinal tracts, while shellfish, which are eaten whole, contained it in their edible tissues. The findings raise direct concerns about human exposure to microplastics and textile fibers through everyday seafood consumption.
Microfiber Content in Pacific Oysters (Crassostrea gigas) from Morro Bay, California
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Researchers measured microfiber contamination in Pacific oysters (Crassostrea gigas) from Morro Bay, California, to assess exposure levels in a commercially important shellfish species. Microfibers were detected in oysters across sampling sites, with concentrations varying by location and season, indicating consistent exposure to synthetic fiber pollution in this coastal environment.
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When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.