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Study of fibrous microplastic and natural microfiber levels in branded milk samples from Italy
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Researchers analyzed 20 samples of branded milk from Italy for microfiber contamination and found natural and synthetic microfibers in nearly 68% of samples, with counts ranging from 1 to 27 particles per 100 milliliters. Chemical analysis confirmed the presence of polyethylene, polyester, acrylic, and cellulosic fibers. The study represents the first evidence of microfiber occurrence in Italian branded milk, adding to the growing body of research on microplastic contamination in common food products.
As far as we know, there is no evidence regarding the microfiber (MF) occurrence and abundance in branded milk samples from Italy. Therefore, a total of 20 milk samples from 5 brands were collected and analyzed using a digestion step with hydrogen peroxide, followed by filtration. Natural and synthetic MFs were classified according to the evaluation of surface morphology (i.e., shape and texture), followed by chemical identification using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Microspectroscopy. Results revealed the occurrence of MFs in 67.5% of the analyzed samples and showed variability ranging between 1 and 27 particles/100 mL with an overall average of 3.85 MFs/100 mL. The FTIR analyses confirmed the presence of polyethylene, polyester, acrylic, and cellulosic MFs. According to the literature, the contamination of milk may occur at various stages along the production chain. The blood-milk barrier would prevent MFs from being transferred across the mammary gland into the milk. The highest MF levels found in ultra-high temperature skimmed milk of some brands may indicate that the more complex the processing of milk, the more MFs it contains. However, due to the different MF types and polymers, an unambiguous conclusion on MF sources cannot be made. MFs could be shed from the filters used in the milk processing factories and the protective clothing for workers. Therefore, the MF contamination should be properly investigated along the entire supply chain, identifying the sources of contamination and implementing control strategies and mitigation measures.
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Researchers analyzed 16 samples from 13 branded milk products sold in Tamil Nadu, India, and found microplastic particles including polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyacrylamide in all samples. The particles were smaller than 500 micrometers, and contamination levels varied across brands. The findings suggest that plastic packaging may be a source of microplastic contamination in commercially available dairy products.
Investigation of microplastic contamination in some dairy products
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Researchers tested milk, mozzarella cheese, yogurt, and cream products (12 packages, 36 samples total) for microplastics using microscopy and spectroscopy. Microplastic particles, mostly fragments, were found in all samples, with locally or regionally produced items showing higher levels than imported ones. Plastic types detected included polyethylene, polypropylene, polyester, polystyrene, and polycarbonate, suggesting contamination from processing equipment and packaging.
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Researchers analyzed raw, branded, and processed milk samples in Bangladesh and found microplastic contamination in all types, with branded milk containing the highest average concentration at about 156 particles per 100 mL. Children showed higher dietary exposure than adults, and the dominant particles were small transparent fibers made of polymers including PTFE, PET, and nylon, highlighting the need for monitoring and regulation in the milk supply chain.
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