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Microplastics in commercial bivalves from coastal areas of Thailand and health risk associated with microplastics in ingested bivalves
Summary
Researchers measured microplastic contamination in four species of commercial shellfish from Thailand's coastline and assessed the health risk to consumers. Microplastics were found in 69-93% of the shellfish sampled, with fibers being the most common type. Based on local consumption patterns, the study estimated that regular shellfish eaters in Thailand could be ingesting significant amounts of microplastics, though the health risk was deemed low to moderate at current levels.
Microplastics (MPs) contamination in marine organisms is a significant threat to seafood consumers worldwide. This study is the first to investigate the abundance of MPs in the commercial bivalves from six sites along Thailand's coastline, the daily exposure of bivalve consumers to MPs, and potential associated health risks. The microplastic occurrence varied from 69 % to 93 % in four bivalve species while the average abundance of MPs was 1.87 ± 0.86 items/individual or 0.46 ± 0.43 items/g ww. Benthic bivalves (cockles and clams) contained more MPs than their pelagic counterparts (mussels and oysters). Small blue microfibers (<500 μm) were the most abundant. The most common polymers were natural based polymers (cotton and rayon) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The daily microplastic exposure for consumers was 0.52 items/person. Although the risk of microplastic contamination is low, we recommend investigation into the transfer of MPs within the food web, notably as it may pose significant human health concerns.
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