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Evidence, implications and mitigation of plastic-derived contaminants in infant food: a systematic review
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This review of existing research finds that babies may be exposed to tiny plastic particles and related chemicals through their food, and because they eat so much relative to their size, this risk could be higher than for adults. The problem is that current testing methods are inconsistent and often flawed, making it hard to know how much exposure is really happening. Scientists say we urgently need standardized testing to better understand the risks and protect infant health.
Infants are particularly vulnerable to dietary plastic-derived contaminants, including microplastics, nanoplastics, and synthetic oligomers. Their higher food intake relative to body mass amplifies potential exposure and associated risks. Despite this, exposure pathways and health impacts remain poorly understood. Here, we present the first systematic review of infant dietary exposure, incorporating evidence on nanoplastics and oligomers, which constitute almost half (45%) of the current research landscape. Our analysis identifies critical quality control gaps in the methodologies used to gather data on contaminant release, such as insufficient blank or compositional analyses, which limit the robustness of exposure estimates. Without a reliable understanding of exposure, regulators are constrained in evaluating risks. Hence, we outline a single priority to advance the field: adopting standardised exposure assessment approaches to improve data collection for regulatory frameworks and enable the development of effective mitigation strategies.
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Hidden Threats in Infant Diets and Environment ‒ Risks of Microplastics and Nanoplastics in Food
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This review examines how infants aged 0-12 months are exposed to microplastics and nanoplastics through inhalation and ingestion, with plastic packaging and food preparation being major dietary sources. Researchers found that these particles can cross biological barriers, leading to systemic exposure that may affect infant development. The study calls for more comprehensive research to understand the long-term health implications of plastic particle contamination in infant diets.
A Scoping Review of Microplastic Contamination in Infant Foods: Exposure Pathways and Implications for Nutrition and Health of Children
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Researchers reviewed 28 existing studies and found that tiny plastic particles called microplastics show up in baby formula, breast milk, feeding bottles, and even in babies' first bowel movements — meaning infants are exposed before birth and through their earliest meals. While scientists don't yet know exactly how this affects babies' health long-term, the widespread presence of these particles in infant nutrition is concerning enough that researchers are calling for more safety research and cautious steps to limit exposure in the meantime.
The Overview of the Possible Exposure of Infants to Microplastics
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This review examines the various ways infants can be exposed to microplastics, including through breast milk, formula, baby food, plastic bottles, and toys. Researchers note that infants may be especially vulnerable because their metabolic and immune systems are still developing, potentially making them less able to process or eliminate these particles. The study calls for more research into infant-specific exposure levels and health effects, as current data remains limited.
Regulatory Science Perspective on the Analysis of Microplastics and Nanoplastics in Human Food
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This paper from a regulatory science perspective highlights that current methods for detecting and measuring microplastics and nanoplastics in food are not yet reliable enough for formal food safety assessments. There is a lack of standardized definitions, reference materials, and validated analytical methods, especially for nanoplastics. Until these gaps are addressed, it will be difficult for food safety agencies to accurately determine how much plastic contamination people are consuming and whether it poses a health risk.
Microplastics and Nanoplastics: Emerging Contaminants in Food
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This systematic review focuses on microplastics and nanoplastics as emerging contaminants in our food supply. These tiny particles enter food through packaging, processing, and environmental contamination. Current detection methods are still limited, making it difficult to fully measure how much plastic we are eating — highlighting the need for better testing to protect food safety.
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