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From the ocean to jellies forth and back? Microplastics along the commercial life cycle of red algae
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This study identified knowledge gaps about microplastic contamination throughout the commercial life cycle of red algae, from ocean harvesting through industrial processing into agar and carrageenan food additives, raising concerns about microplastic transfer into widely consumed food and personal care products.
Red algae are increasingly exploited for direct consumption and for production of gelling agents like agar and carrageenan, widely employed in food and personal care products. In this article we identify knowledge gaps about microplastics in the whole commercial life cycle of gelling red algae, from their marine production to the final wastewater treatment. Recommendations for new research include studies of microplastics deposition on red algae at sea, during the industrial process of production of gelling agents, and indeed about improvements of microplastics retention in wastewater treatment plants.
More Papers Like This
Microplastics in jellifying algae in the Bay of Biscay. Implications for consumers' health
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Scientists found microplastics, including some potentially harmful types, in red algae (Gelidium) harvested off the coast of Spain, a seaweed used to make agar and eaten directly as food in some countries. Algae growing near sandy beaches picked up more plastic than those on rocky shores, suggesting where seaweed is harvested matters for how much plastic ends up on your plate. While the amount of microplastics in this seaweed is lower than what's found in mussels or eels from the same area, the risk could rise if plastics aren't filtered out during processing into agar, a common food thickener.
Microplastics in the commercial seaweed nori
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Researchers quantified microplastic contamination in commercial nori (edible seaweed) at different stages of processing, finding that microplastics were present in both raw and processed products. The results suggest that nori can accumulate microplastics from its marine growing environment and retain them through processing into consumer products.
Harnessing marine macroalgae for bioplastic materials production: a comprehensive review
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This review examined the potential of marine macroalgae-derived bioplastics using polysaccharides including alginate, carrageenan, and agar, highlighting their biodegradability and reduced carbon footprint compared to conventional plastics. Key barriers to commercialization include high production costs, mechanical deficiencies, and scalability limitations, which may be addressed through blending with other biopolymers and investment in biorefinery technologies.
Impact of Nanoplastics on the Functional Profile of Microalgae Species Used as Food Supplements: Insights from Comparative In Vitro and Ex Vivo Digestion Studies
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Researchers assessed how polystyrene and polyethylene nanoplastics affect microalgae species used as food supplements, both before and after simulated digestion. The study found that nanoplastics persisted through the digestion process, altered particle behavior in the microalgae medium, and significantly increased total phenolic content, raising concerns about food safety when plastic contamination occurs.
Role of microalgae as a sustainable alternative of biopolymers and its application in industries
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Not a microplastics paper — this review examines the potential of algae-derived biopolymers (such as alginate, carrageenan, and polyhydroxyalkanoates) as biodegradable, eco-friendly replacements for petroleum-based plastics, highlighting their advantages but noting challenges for large-scale production.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.