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Influence of Micro and Nanoplastics in Modern Food Chain: an Inevitable Intervention
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This review examines the growing presence of microplastics and nanoplastics throughout the modern food chain, summarizing known entry points, concentrations in food commodities, and potential health consequences of regular human dietary exposure.
Microplastics and nanoplastics are emerging environmental contaminants that have raised significant concerns due to their widespread presence in various ecosystems, including the food chain. This abstract provides a concise overview of the research on micro and nano plastics in the food chain, summarizing their sources, pathways, impacts, and potential risks to human health. Microplastics, defined as plastic particles smaller than 5 mm, and nanoplastics, which are even smaller (<1 μm), can originate from diverse sources, including the degradation of larger plastic items, industrial processes, and atmospheric deposition. These particles can enter the food chain through multiple routes, such as ingestion by aquatic organisms, bioaccumulation in higher trophic levels, and uptake by plants in terrestrial ecosystems. Once micro and nano plastics enter the food chain, they have the potential to cause adverse effects on organisms. These effects can include physical harm, impaired feeding and growth, reproductive disturbances, and disruptions to the immune system. Microplastics can also adsorb and transport persistent organic pollutants, acting as vectors for these contaminants within the food web. Of particular concern is the possible transfer of micro and nano plastics to humans through the consumption of contaminated food and water. Limited evidence suggests that microplastics can penetrate the human gut barrier, potentially leading to systemic exposure and health risks. These risks may include inflammation, oxidative stress, and perturbation of the gut microbiota. In conclusion, the presence of micro and nano plastics in the food chain poses ecological risks and potential threats to human health. Understanding the sources, pathways, impacts, and risks associated with these particles is crucial for developing effective mitigation strategies and policies. Further research is needed to elucidate the long-term consequences and establish comprehensive guidelines to minimize micro and nano plastic contamination in the food chain.
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