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Microplastic contamination in Indian rice: A comprehensive characterization and health risk assessment
Summary
Researchers found microplastics in all samples of Indian rice tested, averaging about 30 particles per 100 grams, with polyethylene and PET being the most common types. The study estimated daily microplastic intake from rice consumption for men, women, and children, highlighting that this dietary staple is a potential pathway for plastic particles to enter the human body.
In this study, we investigate, for the first time, the abundance, distribution, chemical composition, and exposure of microplastics (MPs) in Indian rice and their impact on human health. The physical and chemical characteristics of MPs were measured using a stereomicroscope, μ-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and μ-Raman spectroscopy. MPs were identified in all samples, with an average abundance of 30.3 ± 8.61 particles/100 g. The abundance of MPs was higher in RS-4 and lower in RS-3. Notably, the size of MPs found is between <0.05 to 1.00 mm. The results showed that four types of MPs were identified: polyethylene and polyethylene terephthalate were dominant, followed by polypropylene and polyamide. MPs were ubiquitous in all rice sample, indicating ingestion as a potential pathway for the entry of plastics into the human body. According to the pollution load index values, which ranged from 1.00 to 1.528, the contamination of MPs in the rice samples was minimal. The highest estimated daily intake values of MPs from rice consumption by Indian males, females, and children were 1.292, 1.527, and 1.313 particles kg day, respectively. Our study sheds light on MP exposure and provides fundamental data for evaluating the potential health risks associated with MPs.