Breaded shrimp, plant-based nuggets, and conventional chicken nuggets are the protein sources with the highest levels of microplastic contamination, according to a new study. The research, which analyzed 16 types of commonly consumed protein products, found that 88% of tested samples contained microplastics.
Scientists from the University of Toronto and Ocean Conservancy purchased samples from conventional and natural/organic supermarkets, as well as fresh seafood directly from fishing boats in the Portland, Oregon, area. After using chemical solutions to isolate plastic particles, researchers found that breaded shrimp averaged 370 microplastic particles per serving. Plant-based nuggets followed with an average of 73 particles, and conventional chicken nuggets averaged 62 particles per serving.
Pollock fish sticks and plant-based fish sticks also appeared in the top five, with 58 and 46 particles per serving, respectively. In contrast, chicken breast had the lowest contamination, with an average of two particles per serving.
The study suggests that the processing of food may significantly influence microplastic content, with highly processed items containing more particles. However, microplastics were also found in fresh-caught seafood, indicating contamination can occur before products reach retailers.
"There’s no escaping them no matter what you eat, it seems," Dr. Britta Baechler, a marine biologist and co-author of the study, stated in a press release. "Our study adds to this knowledge but also demonstrates the need for further research to better understand the bigger picture, including where these microplastics are coming from and the potential human health risks."
Researchers estimated that the average U.S. adult consumes approximately 11,000 microplastic particles annually from the protein products studied. This number could potentially rise to as high as 3.8 million particles per year for individuals with higher consumption rates of contaminated foods.
Microplastics, defined as plastic particles smaller than 5 millimeters, have been detected throughout the environment, including in human blood, placentas, and various organs. While the full health impacts are still under investigation, studies suggest potential links to inflammation, cell damage, hormonal disruption, and an increased risk of cardiovascular problems, reproductive issues, and neurodegenerative diseases.