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Microplastic Contamination in Farmed Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss): First Evidence from Bulgarian Freshwater Aquaculture
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Researchers used laser direct infrared imaging spectroscopy to detect microplastics in the muscle tissue of farmed rainbow trout from Bulgarian freshwater aquaculture, finding MPs in every specimen examined and identifying multiple polymer types — suggesting diverse contamination sources and potential trophic transfer to human consumers.
Microplastic (MP) contamination is increasingly recognized as a global environmental problem affecting aquatic ecosystems, food quality, and animal and human health. Farmed fish represent an important and increasing component of the human diet. Therefore, understanding potential human exposure to MPs is essential for ensuring food safety. In the current paper, we present the results of a preliminary study conducted in Bulgaria on MP contamination in the muscle tissue of rainbow trout [Oncorhynchus mykiss (Walbaum, 1792)] reared in freshwater aquaculture systems. Edible tissues were analyzed using Laser Direct Infrared (LDIR) imaging spectroscopy, a highly sensitive method enabling rapid detection and accurate identification of polymer types present in samples. MPs were detected in all examined specimens, demonstrating that these particles are bioavailable and capable of accumulating in fish muscle tissues commonly consumed by humans. Moreover, the presence of multiple polymer types suggests diverse contamination sources within aquaculture environments. Although the present findings do not allow direct conclusions about human health risks, they indicate potential risks of trophic transfer and highlight the need for improved monitoring strategies and management practices in farmed fish production. Overall, this study provides novel data on MP exposure in aquaculture species and emphasizes the preventive importance of assessing plastic pollution in fish intended for human consumption.
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Microplastic Contamination in Farmed Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss): First Evidence from Bulgarian Freshwater Aquaculture
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Researchers present the first assessment of microplastic contamination in farmed rainbow trout muscle tissue from Bulgarian freshwater aquaculture. Using advanced infrared imaging spectroscopy, they detected microplastics in all examined fish, with multiple polymer types suggesting diverse contamination sources. The findings underscore the importance of monitoring microplastic levels in aquaculture species intended for human consumption.
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Microplastics were detected in Turkish salmon purchased from supermarkets, with identification performed using stereomicroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The presence of MPs in commercially sold fish highlighted consumer dietary exposure and the penetration of microplastic pollution into the food supply.
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