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Quantifying ecological risks of aquatic micro- and nanoplastic
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This study analyzed microplastic contamination in table salts from multiple countries and found plastic particles present in the vast majority of samples tested. Sea salt contained the highest levels of microplastics compared to rock and lake salts, reflecting the extent of marine plastic pollution. The findings suggest that table salt is a previously underappreciated pathway for human microplastic ingestion, with estimated annual intake varying by geographic region.
Diverse effects of nano- and microplastic (NMP) have been demonstrated in the laboratory. We provide a broad review of current knowledge on occurrence, measurement, modeling approaches, fate, exposure, effects, and effect thresholds as regard to microplastics in the aquatic environment. Using thisinformation, we perform a ‘proof of concept’ risk assessment for NMP, accounting for the diversity of the material. New data is included showing how bioturbation affects exposure, and exposure is evaluated based on literature data and model analyses. We review exposure and effect data and provide aworst case risk characterization, by comparing HC5 effect thresholds from ‘all inclusive’ Species Sensitivity Distributions (SSDs) with the highest environmental concentrations reported. HC5 values show wide confidence intervals yet suggest that sensitive aquatic organisms in near-shore surface waters might be at risk.
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Microplastics in Table Salts: Sources, Abundance, Types, and Consumption– A Review
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This global review synthesizes research on microplastic contamination in table salts, examining sources, abundance, particle types, and estimated human consumption, finding that sea salts tend to have higher microplastic loads than rock or lake salts.
Microplastic contamination of salt intended for human consumption: a systematic review and meta-analysis
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This systematic review and meta-analysis examined microplastic contamination in table salt from around the world. It found that microplastics are present in most salt products intended for human consumption, with sea salt generally containing more particles than rock or lake salt, representing a consistent source of dietary microplastic exposure.
Microplastic pollution threat in table salt that an abiotic sea product
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This Turkish study investigates microplastic contamination in commercially sold table salt, finding plastic particles in sea salt products. Table salt is consumed daily, and microplastic contamination in this product represents a potential route for regular human dietary exposure.
Contamination of table salts from Turkey with microplastics Part A Chemistry, analysis, control, exposure & risk assessment
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This study analyzed 16 brands of table salt from Turkish markets and found microplastics in most samples, with concentration varying by salt type and source. The findings add to growing global evidence that microplastics have entered the human food chain through commercial sea and lake salt.
Global Pattern of Microplastics (MPs) in Commercial Food-Grade Salts: Sea Salt as an Indicator of Seawater MP Pollution
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A global analysis of commercial sea salts found microplastics in samples from 21 countries, with the highest concentrations in sea salts from Asia and the lowest in rock and lake salts. The findings suggest that sea salt can serve as an indicator of seawater microplastic pollution levels in surrounding regions.
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When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.