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Evidence of microplastic accumulation on the surface of lettuce and analysis of contamination sources
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Researchers found microplastics on the surface of lettuce grown in real agricultural conditions and traced the contamination to both airborne particles and pesticide sprays. The pesticide application process was identified as a significant but previously overlooked source of microplastics on vegetable surfaces. This study is relevant to human health because it shows that even washed fresh produce may carry microplastics from multiple sources during the growing process.
Microplastic (MP) pollution has emerged as a significant environmental concern. Microplastics land on vegetable surfaces with airborne deposition and agronomic activities. However, research on the sources of microplastics on vegetable surfaces is limited by the lack of monitoring of microplastics in the growing environment. Therefore, we detected microplastics on lettuce surfaces, in air, and in pesticides to determine the correlation between them. In addition, this study compared microplastics on the surface of different types of lettuce to explore their differences. The results showed that the content, in descending order, was old leaves of leaf lettuce > new leaves of leaf lettuce > nodular lettuce. A total of 19 polymers, mainly polyamide polyethylene and polypropylene, were detected on the surface of the lettuce. The contribution of microplastics on the surface of lettuce was air and pesticides in descending order of origin. Microplastic risk assessment index was determined that the risk level of microplastics on lettuce surfaces could be classed as level IV, indicating a high dietary health risk. The results presented here will enable scientific assessments of the exposure pathways of MPs in fresh vegetables and their potential harm to human health.
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This research highlights that leafy vegetables like lettuce can absorb microplastics and nanoplastics directly from the air through their leaves, not just from contaminated soil or water. This atmospheric pathway has been largely overlooked as a source of microplastic contamination in food crops. The finding suggests that people may be consuming more microplastics through salads and leafy greens than previously estimated.
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Microplastic-Mediated Heavy Metal Uptake in Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.): Implications for Food Safety and Agricultural Sustainability
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Researchers grew lettuce in contaminated soil mixed with different types of microplastics, including fibers, glitter, and fragments from bags and bottles. They found that microplastics altered how heavy metals like lead, cadmium, and copper moved through the soil and into the plants, sometimes increasing uptake of toxic metals in roots while decreasing others in leaves. The results raise concerns about food safety in agricultural areas where both microplastic and heavy metal contamination overlap.
Airborne microplastics in leaves and food safety risks
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Researchers highlighted evidence that airborne microplastics can be absorbed through plant leaves, representing a significant but underappreciated route of plastic contamination in terrestrial food systems. The study underscores the need for urgent action to reduce plastic emissions and re-evaluate agricultural and food safety frameworks.
A preliminary survey of microplastic contamination in hydroponically grown salad vegetables sold in supermarkets
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Researchers tested lettuce (green oak, red oak, and cos) grown hydroponically and sold at supermarkets in Thailand for microplastics. All samples contained microplastic particles, mostly small fibers, with green oak showing the highest average amount. The study could not identify the exact plastic types and calls for more research into how contamination occurs.
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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.