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Article ? AI-assigned paper type based on the abstract. Classification may not be perfect — flag errors using the feedback button. Tier 2 ? Original research — experimental, observational, or case-control study. Direct primary evidence. Environmental Sources Food & Water Human Health Effects Marine & Wildlife Sign in to save

From Sea to Plate: The Plastic Pollution Problem in the Food Chain

2025 1 citation ? Citation count from OpenAlex, updated daily. May differ slightly from the publisher's own count.
Carolyne Shealy, Gabriela Fernandez, Domenico Vito, Carol Maione

Summary

This review analyzes the transfer of microplastics through the food chain from marine environments to human consumption, drawing on 12 published studies. Researchers found evidence of microplastic ingestion by fish and animals consumed by humans, as well as the presence of microplastics in human tissues and blood. The findings underscore the need for further research into how microplastics accumulate and transfer through the food web to reach the human body.

Models

The rising concern over plastic pollution is not only related to pollution in marine and terrestrial habitats but also effects humans. This study analyzes the trophic transfer of microplastics throughout the food chain, with an emphasis on the effects on human health. It provides a review of 12 articles analyzing the microplastic intake by humans via ingestion of fish and environmental exposure. In particular, the reviewed studies focused on microplastic ingestion by fish and animals intended for human consumption, the distribution of microplastics in human tissues, and human blood. The results of this analysis can extend our understanding of microplastic transfer in the human body, with implications for future research.

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