Beneath the surface: Exploring microplastic intricacies in Anadara granosa

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Marine Biology
• Food Safety

Background:

• Anadara granosa (blood cockles) are a popular seafood delicacy in Asian cuisine.
• Malaysia is a major exporter of A. granosa, raising concerns about potential contamination in imported products.
• Limited research exists on microplastic bioaccumulation in Malaysian A. granosa.

Purpose of the Study:

• Investigate microplastic accumulation levels in A. granosa from key Malaysian export locations.
• Assess the ecological and health risks associated with microplastic contamination in A. granosa.
• Estimate the daily human intake of microplastics through A. granosa consumption.

Main Methods:

• Quantified microplastic abundance using stereo microscopy.
• Identified polymer types via Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and micro-FTIR.
• Conducted microplastic risk assessment and estimated daily dietary intake (EDI).

Main Results:

• All sampled A. granosa contained microplastics, with highest levels on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia (0.26 ± 0.15 particles/g).
• Fragment and fiber microplastics (0.05–0.1 mm) were most common, predominantly blue, with rayon as the prevalent polymer.
• High contamination risk identified due to polyacrylate, polycarbonate (PC), and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA).

Conclusions:

• Anadara granosa accumulates significant levels of microplastics, particularly from Malaysian waters.
• Consumption poses a considerable microplastic intake risk to humans, estimated at 21.8–93.5 particles/person/year.
• Further research is needed to understand potential bioaccumulation and biomagnification in the human food chain.