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Published on: July 24, 2021
Prevalence and characteristics of microplastic contamination in soft drinks and potential consumer exposure
Anh Tuan Ta1, Sandhya Babel2, Li Pang Wang3
1Department of Sanitary Engineering, Faculty of Public Health, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand; School of Biochemical Engineering and Technology, Sirindhorn International Institute of Technology, Thammasat University, P.O. Box 22, Pathum Thani, 12121, Thailand.
Abstract:
Microplastics (MPs) contamination in human food is a growing concern due to potential health risks. Recent studies have indicated that MPs have been found in various human tissues and organs, including the placenta, lungs, liver, and blood. This highlights the importance of investigating the presence and concentration of MPs in food products, as it directly relates to human health and safety. In this study, MP contamination was detected and characterized in commercially available soft drinks in Thailand. Nine popular soft drink brands in Thailand, packaged in different materials, including plastic bottles, aluminum cans, and glass bottles, were investigated. The results revealed that regardless of packaging type, all the soft drink brands tested contained MPs, with concentrations ranging from 2 ± 3 to 39 ± 12 items per liter. MPs in the 50-100 μm size range, primarily with a fragment-like morphology, were most commonly found. Given that the average person in Thailand consumes approximately 41.13 L of soft drinks annually, it is estimated that an individual could ingest between 81 and 1609 MPs yearly. These findings raise significant concerns about the potential health impacts of MP ingestion through soft drinks and underscore the need for further research and regulation.
Insights
Microplastic (MP) contamination is present in all tested soft drinks in Thailand, regardless of packaging. This study estimates yearly ingestion of 81-1609 MPs per person, raising health concerns.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Food Safety
- Toxicology
Background:
- Microplastic (MP) contamination is a growing global concern, with MPs detected in human tissues.
- Food products are a significant route for human exposure to microplastics.
- Investigating MP contamination in beverages is crucial for public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To detect and characterize microplastic contamination in commercially available soft drinks in Thailand.
- To estimate the annual microplastic intake from soft drink consumption in Thailand.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of nine popular soft drink brands in Thailand, packaged in plastic, aluminum, and glass.
- Quantification and characterization of microplastics (size, morphology) in soft drink samples.
Main Results:
- All tested soft drink brands contained microplastics, with concentrations ranging from 2 ± 3 to 39 ± 12 items/L.
- Fragment-like microplastics in the 50-100 μm size range were most prevalent.
- Estimated annual ingestion of 81-1609 microplastics per person based on average consumption.
Conclusions:
- Soft drinks in Thailand are a notable source of microplastic ingestion.
- Findings highlight potential health risks associated with microplastic consumption.
- Further research and regulatory action are needed to address microplastic contamination in beverages.
