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Sampling, Identification and Characterization of Microplastics Release from Polypropylene Baby Feeding Bottle during Daily Use
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Distribution, Polymer Composition, and Exposure Risks of Microplastics in Bottled and Tap Water Distribution.

Mariana Silva1, Pedro Ideia1,2, Carolina Pimenta-Fernandes2

  • 1CQM-Centro de Química da Madeira, Universidade da Madeira, Campus da Penteada, 9020-105 Funchal, Portugal.

Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)
|July 15, 2026
PubMed
Summary

Microplastic (MP) pollution is found in bottled and tap water on Madeira Island. Children face higher exposure risks, highlighting the need for better monitoring and safety standards.

Keywords:
EDIbottled watermicroplasticsstereomicroscopytap waterµ-FTIR

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Area of Science:

  • Environmental Science
  • Public Health
  • Analytical Chemistry

Background:

  • Microplastic (MP) pollution in drinking water presents growing environmental and health concerns.
  • MPs can transport harmful toxicants and pathogens.
  • This study is the first to comprehensively assess MPs in drinking water from Madeira Island.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To conduct a detailed chemical and morphological characterization of MPs in bottled and tap water.
  • To estimate human exposure to MPs through drinking water consumption.
  • To evaluate MP contamination in the unique context of an insular environment.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of 22 water samples (10 bottled, 12 tap) using stereomicroscopy and micro-Fourier transform infrared (µ-FTIR) spectroscopy.
  • Identification and quantification of microplastic particles.
  • Calculation of estimated daily intake (EDI) for adults and children.

Main Results:

  • 65 microplastic particles were confirmed out of 428 detected particles.
  • Bottled water contamination: polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE).
  • Tap water contamination: PE, PP, polyester, polyamide (PA).
  • MPs were predominantly <400 µm, transparent fragments in bottled water, and fibres in tap water.
  • MP concentrations ranged from 0.5 to 6 MPs/L, with flavoured waters showing the highest levels.
  • Estimated daily intake varied, with children exposed 3.6 times more than adults.

Conclusions:

  • Microplastic contamination is present in Madeira Island's drinking water, with varying polymer types and forms.
  • Flavoured bottled water showed the highest MP concentrations.
  • Children exhibit significantly higher estimated daily intake of MPs.
  • Standardized monitoring, improved production, and risk assessments are crucial for addressing chronic low-level exposure, particularly in island environments.