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Updated: Jul 6, 2025
Sampling, Identification and Characterization of Microplastics Release from Polypropylene Baby Feeding Bottle during Daily Use
Published on: July 24, 2021
Isolation and identification of microplastics in infant formulas - A potential health risk for children
Kornelia Kadac-Czapska1, Patrycja Jutrzenka Trzebiatowska2, Mikołaj Mazurkiewicz3
1Department of Bromatology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Gdańsk, 80-416 Gdańsk, Poland.
Abstract:
Microplastics (MPs) are plastic particles between 0.1 and 5,000 µm in size that can contaminate food. Unfortunately, to date, little attention has been paid to analyzing the presence of such particles in baby foods. The present study aimed to determine the degree of contamination of infant formula with MPs. A total of thirty products were subjected to analysis. The research methodology used included the isolation of plastic particles, identification and characterization of MPs using advanced microscopic and spectroscopic techniques. Microplastics were detected in all tested samples. The most frequently identified polymers were polyamide, polyethylene, polypropylene, and poly(ethylene terephthalate). The particles exhibited diverse forms, including fibers, fragments, and films, displaying a range of colors such as colorless, black, and brown particles. Furthermore, the daily intake of MPs by children fed exclusively infant formula was estimated to be approximately 49 ± 32 MPs. This poses a potential health risk for the youngest.
Insights
Microplastics (MPs) were found in all infant formula samples tested. Babies exclusively fed formula may ingest approximately 49 MPs daily, posing a potential health risk.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Food Safety
- Toxicology
Background:
- Microplastics (MPs), plastic particles ranging from 0.1 to 5,000 µm, are emerging food contaminants.
- Limited research exists on the presence and impact of MPs in infant formula.
- Infant formula is a critical nutrition source for many babies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the level of microplastic contamination in infant formula.
- To identify the types and characteristics of microplastics present in infant formula.
- To estimate the daily microplastic intake for infants exclusively fed formula.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 30 infant formula products.
- Isolation and purification of microplastic particles.
- Identification and characterization using advanced microscopy and spectroscopy.
Main Results:
- Microplastics were detected in 100% of the analyzed infant formula samples.
- Common polymers identified include polyamide, polyethylene, polypropylene, and PET.
- Particles were found in various forms (fibers, fragments, films) and colors (colorless, black, brown).
- Estimated daily intake of MPs for exclusively formula-fed infants is 49 ± 32 particles.
Conclusions:
- Infant formula is a significant source of microplastic exposure for infants.
- The presence of diverse microplastic types and forms warrants further investigation into potential health effects.
- Urgent attention is needed to reduce microplastic contamination in infant nutrition.
