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Microplastic contamination in salt from two traditional salterns in the Southern Philippines: occurrence and exposure implications
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Researchers tested traditional sea salt from two sites in the Philippines and found tiny plastic particles in all samples—but the amount varied a lot, with one location showing roughly 3.5 times more contamination than the other. The difference seems to come down to how each salt farm handles its water and equipment, suggesting that better practices (like different pond linings or filtering methods) could help cut down on the plastic bits ending up in the salt we eat.
Microplastic contamination in salt production systems presents an emerging concern for water quality, food safety, and environmental management. This study assessed microplastics in two traditional salterns in the southern Philippines to evaluate contamination levels, particle characteristics, and potential human exposure. Salt samples were collected from evaporation ponds prior to harvest at two sites, Zamboanga City and Alubijid, each employing distinct water-handling designs and harvesting methods. Both sites contained microplastics, with Zamboanga City exhibiting lower levels (28 ± 7 particles per kilogram) compared with Alubijid (102 ± 21 particles per kilogram). Particle profiles differed between the salterns: fragments and dark-colored particles were predominant in Zamboanga City, while films and light-colored particles were dominant in Alubijid. Polypropylene and polyethylene were the major polymers in both systems. Higher contamination in Alubijid corresponded with elevated pollution load and potential human intake estimates, suggesting a greater overall risk. The observed differences appear linked to site-specific water flow, pond lining materials, and operational practices. The findings demonstrate that operational and water-handling practices directly affect microplastic accumulation in salt ponds, underscoring the need for enhanced monitoring and targeted process improvements to mitigate contamination.
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Researchers analyzed microplastic contamination in commercial sea salt from three Italian salterns and found an average of approximately 1,653 microplastic particles per kilogram of salt. The study highlights important methodological considerations for sampling and quantification, noting that the physical characteristics and polymer types of microplastics varied across sampling locations.
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Microplastic contamination in Indonesian consumable salts
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Researchers analyzed both traditionally produced and commercial branded sea salts from Indonesia and found microplastics in all samples tested. Traditionally produced salts contained the highest contamination levels, with up to 3,753 particles per kilogram, though branded salts also contained significant amounts. The study indicates that sea salt is a notable dietary source of microplastic exposure for consumers.
High levels of microplastics in commercial salt and industrial salterns in Sri Lanka
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All commercial salt products tested in Sri Lanka were contaminated with microplastics, with concentrations ranging from 11 to 193 items/kg in commercial salts and up to 253 items/kg in lab-grade NaCl, and significant variation between three analyzed saltern sites.
From Sea Water to Salt Crystals: An Onsite Investigation of Microplastics in a Conventional Sea Salt Farming System
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Researchers conducted on-site sampling of sea salt crystals and traced microplastic contamination at multiple stages from seawater through to the final salt product. Microplastics were detected throughout the production chain, highlighting potential dietary exposure from table salt.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.