We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Microplastics in Foods Intended for Health Purposes: From Dietary Supplements to Clinical Nutrition Products
Summary
This review pulls together existing research showing that tiny plastic particles have been found in health products like supplements, infant formula, herbal remedies, and even hospital feeding formulas — the very products meant to support people who are sick, very young, or otherwise vulnerable. This matters because these populations may be more sensitive to contaminants and often depend on these products daily, yet scientists still don't fully understand the health risks, so more consistent testing and research is needed to figure out how concerned we should be.
Microplastics (MPs) are pervasive contaminants that have been detected throughout the food chain. Their presence raises concerns in foods intended for health-related purposes, as these products are often consumed by vulnerable populations such as infants, older adults, and patients requiring clinical nutrition support. These groups may be more susceptible to contaminant exposure and may rely heavily on specialized foods. Therefore, understanding the occurrence and potential risks of MPs in such products is important. This review summarizes the current state of knowledge regarding the presence, sources, and health implications of plastic particles in several categories of health-oriented foods, including dietary supplements, medicinal herbs, plant-based beverages, honey, infant formulas, and clinical nutrition products, including enteral and parenteral formulations. Microplastics have been reported across these matrices. Fibers and fragments dominate, and common polymers include polyamide, polyethylene, polypropylene, and poly(ethylene terephthalate). These particles can originate from polluted water, soil, and air, as well as from production processes, packaging wear, and clinical delivery systems. Current evidence suggests that improving methodological consistency and expanding targeted toxicological research relevant to vulnerable populations will be crucial for strengthening risk assessment.