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Environmental Chemical Contaminants in Food: Review of a Global Problem
Summary
This study measured microplastic contamination in the surface waters of the Laurentian Great Lakes and found plastic particles present across all five lakes. The majority of particles were fragments and fibers, with the highest concentrations found near urban areas and in downstream lakes. The findings indicate that the Great Lakes are a significant reservoir of microplastic pollution, with densities comparable to those reported in marine environments.
Contamination by chemicals from the environment is a major global food safety issue, posing a serious threat to human health. These chemicals belong to many groups, including metals/metalloids, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), persistent organic pollutants (POPs), perfluorinated compounds (PFCs), pharmaceutical and personal care products (PPCPs), radioactive elements, electronic waste, plastics, and nanoparticles. Some of these occur naturally in the environment, whilst others are produced from anthropogenic sources. They may contaminate our food-crops, livestock, and seafood-and drinking water and exert adverse effects on our health. It is important to perform assessments of the associated potential risks. Monitoring contamination levels, enactment of control measures including remediation, and consideration of sociopolitical implications are vital to provide safer food globally.
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