Microplastics in food: What we know and what remains uncertain

Microplastics are everywhere, from the deep oceans to our food supply. But what do we really know about their impact on human health? In this podcast episode, we dive into the origins of microplastics, how they enter our food and drinking water, and what happens once they enter our bodies. Together with EFSA expert Elena Rovesti, we explore current scientific insights, why significant uncertainties remain, and the research projects underway to assess the associated risks.

According to expert Elena Rovesti, plastics are non-biodegradable polymers that gradually break down into smaller pieces. Plastic fragments smaller than 5mm are classified as microplastics, while even smaller particles are referred to as nanoplastics. The shift in research from large plastic waste to microplastics in soil and food has become a primary concern for the scientific community over the last decade.

Regarding whether microplastics enter produce like strawberries, Ms. Rovesti explains that there are many pathways: from contaminated soil and irrigation water to agricultural practices such as mulching or the use of plastic piping. Furthermore, during processing and packaging, food may come into contact with plastic equipment. However, current research from EFSA's food contact materials team has not identified alarmingly high releases of microplastics.

The greatest challenge today is the lack of standardized analytical methods to compare data across laboratories. Removing food matrices to quantify plastics without damaging them is an extremely complex technical process. EFSA is currently executing a research roadmap requested by the European Parliament to assess long-term health risks, while collaborating with projects like CUSP to find definitive answers.

While awaiting concrete scientific evidence, the advice for consumers is to focus on reducing single-use plastics. This action not only helps decrease the load of plastic waste entering the environment but also contributes to preventing the accumulation of microplastics in the global food chain in the long run.