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From sea to table: Assessing microplastic contamination in local and non-local salt in Bali, Indonesia
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All 20 brands of table salt tested in Bali, Indonesia contained microplastics, with an average of 173 particles per kilogram. Based on typical salt consumption, residents ingest roughly one microplastic particle per day from salt alone, highlighting how everyday foods serve as a constant low-level source of microplastic exposure.
Microplastic contamination in table salt has emerged as a significant environmental and public health concern, particularly in regions like Bali, Indonesia, where salt is predominantly produced through seawater crystallization This study aimed to quantify and characterize microplastics in local and non-local table salts and estimate the potential microplastic intake. A total of 20 salt brands (10 local, 10 non-local) were collected and analyzed using density separation, stereomicroscopy, and FTIR spectroscopy. The results indicated that all salt samples contained microplastics, with an average concentration of 173 ± 119 particles/kg. Non-local salts exhibited higher contamination levels (211 ± 134 particles/kg) compared to local salts (135 ± 88 particles/kg). Fragments were the most prevalent microplastic type (55%), followed by fibers (44%), and smaller particles (≤500 μm) were the most common in size. A total of 13 polymer types were identified in the microplastic samples, with chlorobutyl (33%) and ethylene propylene rubber (29%) being the most dominant. Based on salt consumption rates, it was estimated that Bali residents ingest 1 microplastic particles per day, translating to an annual intake of 316-425 particles. These findings highlight the widespread nature of microplastic contamination in consumable salt and suggest potential health risks from the ingestion of microplastics, which may carry harmful pollutants. The study emphasizes the need for improved salt production practices, stricter pollution controls, and further research into the health implications of microplastic ingestion.
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Researchers tested table salt sold in a coastal Indonesian village and found tiny plastic particles—called microplastics—in every single sample, mostly small plastic fragments smaller than a grain of sand. Since salt is something we eat almost every day, this means regular salt use could be a small but steady source of plastic exposure, adding to concerns about how microplastics end up in our food. The findings point to a need for better plastic waste management and more monitoring of food products to limit this contamination.
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.
Detection of microplastic contamination in table salts in Padang City, Indonesia, and control strategies for choosing healthy salt
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Researchers analyzed microplastic contamination in ten brands of table salt commonly consumed in Padang, Indonesia. The study found microplastic particles in all brands tested, ranging from 30 to 510 particles per kilogram, with fragments being the most common shape, suggesting that salt products represent a meaningful source of dietary microplastic exposure.
Microplastics footprint in Indonesian edible salt: A comparative study across Western, Central, and Eastern regions
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Researchers surveyed 45 edible salt brands across western, central, and eastern Indonesia and found an average of 222 microplastic particles per kilogram — predominantly fibers under 1 mm — with western regions showing the highest contamination and regional polymer composition varying markedly by location.
Microplastic pollution from sea salt: its effect on public health and prevention alternatives - a review
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This review examines microplastic contamination in sea salt from countries that export to Indonesia, summarizing polymer types, contamination levels, public health effects of ingested microplastics, and potential prevention strategies to reduce human salt-borne plastic exposure.
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