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Mapping Microplastics in Humans: Analysis of Polymer Types, and Shapes in Food and Drinking Water—A Systematic Review
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This systematic review mapped the types and shapes of microplastics found in food, drinking water, and human tissue samples. Polyethylene and polypropylene — common in food packaging — were the most frequently detected plastics, and fiber-shaped particles were especially prevalent in human samples.
Microplastics (MPs) pervade the environment, infiltrating food sources and human bodies, raising concerns about their impact on human health. This review is focused on three key questions: (i) What type of polymers are humans most exposed to? (ii) What are the prevalent shapes of MPs found in food and human samples? (iii) Are the data influenced by the detection limit on the size of particles? Through a systematic literature analysis, we have explored data on polymer types and shapes found in food and human samples. The data provide evidence that polyester is the most commonly detected polymer in humans, followed by polyamide, polyurethane, polypropylene, and polyacrylate. Fibres emerge as the predominant shape across all categories, suggesting potential environmental contamination from the textile industry. Studies in humans and drinking water reported data on small particles, in contrast to larger size MPs detected in environmental research, in particular seafood. Discrepancies in size detection methodologies across different reports were identified, which could impact some of the discussed trends. This study highlights the need for more comprehensive research on the interactions between MPs and biological systems and the effects of MPs on toxicity, together with standardised analytical methodologies to accurately assess contamination levels and human exposure. Understanding these dynamics is essential for formulating effective strategies to mitigate the environmental and health implications of MP pollution.
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This review summarizes current knowledge about microplastic contamination in the human body, finding that particles smaller than 50 micrometers are most commonly detected, with polyethylene, polypropylene, and PET being the dominant types. Evidence indicates that microplastics enter humans mainly through food, water, and air, and may contribute to inflammation, oxidative stress, and disruption of gut bacteria.
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This review summarizes research on microplastic pollution across freshwater and marine ecosystems on all six continents, finding that polyethylene and polypropylene are the most common types found in water. The study highlights that microplastics serve as carriers for toxic chemicals and can move up the food chain, ultimately posing risks to human health through seafood consumption and drinking water.
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This review examines the contamination of the human food chain with micro- and nanoplastics, from seafood and drinking water to processed foods and packaging. Researchers found that while plastic particles are widely present in food and beverages, the actual health impacts on humans remain largely unknown due to inconsistent study methods. The study calls for standardized analytical approaches to properly assess dietary microplastic exposure and its potential risks.
Microplastics in human biological matrices: occurrence, analytical approaches, and health implications
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This review summarizes 124 studies on microplastics found in human body samples, including fluids, tissues, and excretions, most commonly detecting plastics like polyethylene and polypropylene. It found widespread evidence of human exposure, but noted inconsistent methods between studies and said links to health conditions remain observational, not proven causes.
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