We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Presence of Microplastics in Four Types of Shellfish Purchased at Fish Markets in Okayama City, Japan.
Summary
Scientists found microplastics in all four types of shellfish—oysters, clams, scallops, and mussels—purchased from fish markets in Okayama, Japan. The findings confirm that people who eat shellfish regularly ingest microplastics, raising questions about potential health impacts from this dietary exposure.
The worldwide microplastic pollution in our environment is a matter of great concern. Harmful effects of plastics have been reported in various types of organisms including murine animals. We examined the presence of microplastics in four types of shellfish purchased from fish markets in Okayama, Japan and served to the public: short-neck clam (Ruditapes philippinarum, asari in Japanese), hard-shell clam (Meretrix lusoria, hamaguri), brackishwater clam (Cyrenidae, shijimi), and oyster (Crassostrea gigas, kaki). Our analyses demonstrated that approx. 3 pieces of microplastics were present per single shellfish, based on the division of the total number of pieces of microplastic obtained from all 4 types of shellfish by the total number of shellfish examined. Since health problems in humans due to microplastics have not yet been confirmed, further examinations of the effects of ingested microplastics are needed.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Microplastics in the edible tissues of shellfishes sold for human consumption
Researchers analyzed the edible tissues of four shellfish species sold for human consumption and found microplastics present in all samples examined. Fibers were the most commonly detected particle type, with polymer identification confirming synthetic origins including polyethylene and polypropylene. The findings raise concerns about human dietary exposure to microplastics through commercially available seafood products.
Occurrence, sources and potential human health risk of microplastics in seafood species
Researchers measured microplastic occurrence in seafood products available in local markets, identifying plastics in multiple species including fish, shrimp, and bivalves, and estimated potential human dietary intake based on consumption data. The study found that seafood lovers could ingest thousands of microplastic particles per year through regular consumption, with shellfish representing the highest per-serving exposure.
Are bivalves a source of microplastics for humans? A case study in the Brazilian markets
Researchers found that all four species of bivalves sold in Brazilian markets contained microplastics, averaging 1.64 particles per gram, confirming that commercially sold shellfish are a source of microplastic exposure for consumers.
Preliminary survey on the occurrence of microplastics in bivalve mollusks marketed in Apulian fish markets
Researchers surveyed mussels and oysters sold at fish markets in the Apulia region of Italy and found microplastics present in all samples tested. Mussels contained nearly three times more plastic debris than oysters, with small fragments under 500 micrometers being the most common. The findings raise food safety concerns because these shellfish are typically consumed whole, meaning all ingested microplastics are passed directly to the consumer.
An examination of the occurrence and potential risks of microplastics across various shellfish
Researchers compared microplastic contamination levels in commercial shellfish from northern (Qingdao) and southern (Xiamen) China, finding microplastics in 70-100% of samples. The study assessed potential human health risks from consuming contaminated shellfish, with microplastic abundances varying across species and geographic locations.