Determination of Microplastics in Omega-3 Oil Supplements

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Food Science
• Toxicology

Background:

• Microplastics (MPs) are pervasive environmental contaminants with potential human health risks.
• Limited research exists on microplastic contamination in functional foods like omega-3 oils.
• Understanding MP sources in omega-3 products is crucial for consumer safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the occurrence and characteristics of microplastics in omega-3 oils and oil products available in the Korean market.
• To determine if the source of raw material (plant-based vs. animal-based) influences MP contamination levels.
• To identify the primary sources of microplastic contamination in omega-3 products, focusing on raw material sourcing versus manufacturing and packaging.

Main Methods:

• Developed a direct filtration method with acetone washing for microplastic isolation (particles > 5 μm).
• Utilized micro-Raman spectroscopy for microplastic identification and characterization.
• Quantified microplastic levels (MPs/g) in various omega-3 raw oils and capsule products from plant-based and animal-based sources.

Main Results:

• Microplastic contamination was detected in all tested omega-3 oils and capsules.
• Animal-based capsule oils showed the highest average MP levels (10.6 ± 8.9 MPs/g), followed by plant-based capsule oils (3.5 ± 3.9 MPs/g).
• Polypropylene and polyethylene terephthalate were the dominant microplastic types, and smaller microplastics were detected more frequently.

Conclusions:

• The manufacturing and packaging processes are the main contributors to microplastic contamination in omega-3 oils, rather than the raw material source.
• Omega-3 capsules, particularly those from animal sources, exhibit higher microplastic loads.
• Further investigation into manufacturing practices is needed to mitigate microplastic contamination in food products.