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Detection of various microplastics in placentas, meconium, infant feces, breastmilk and infant formula: A pilot prospective study
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In a pilot study of 18 mother-infant pairs, researchers detected microplastics in placentas, meconium (first stool), infant feces, breast milk, and infant formula. The finding of microplastics in breast milk and formula means that infants are exposed to microplastics from their earliest feedings, both natural and artificial. This study reveals that microplastic exposure begins before birth and continues through infancy, a critical period of development.
Pregnancy and infancy are sensitive windows for environmental exposures. However, no study has investigated the presence of microplastics (MPs) in mother-infant pairs, and the exposure sources. Therefore, we aim to assess MPs exposure in placenta, meconium, infant feces, breast milk and infant formula samples, and assess the potential sources of pregnancy and lactational exposure to MPs. A total of 18 mother-infant pairs were recruited, and placentas and meconium samples were collected. Infant feces, breast milk and infant formula samples were collected at 6 months of age. We also collected data on plastic use and feeding habits through two questionnaires to determine the source of exposure. We used an Agilent 8700 laser infrared imaging spectrometer to analyze samples. Sixteen types of MPs were identified, and polyamide (PA) and polyurethane (PU) were dominant. >74 % of the MPs found were 20-50 μm in size. The water intake and usage of scrub cleanser or toothpaste may be exposure sources of pregnant women. The breastfeeding and usage of feeding bottles and plastic toys may be exposure sources for infants. Given the lack of relevant studies, our results highlight the need of investigating the contribution of plastic products to the MPs exposure during the lactational period.
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In a pilot study of nine mother-infant pairs in China, researchers detected microplastics in the placenta, umbilical cord blood, and first stool of newborns, with meconium (baby's first stool) containing the most particles. This provides evidence that microplastics can transfer from mother to baby during pregnancy, raising concerns about plastic exposure during the most vulnerable stage of human development.
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