Microplastics in the Food Chain: A Toxicological Perspective on Human Exposure and Health Implications

Microplastics (MPs), defined as plastic particles less than ۵ mm in diameter, have emerged as ubiquitous environmental contaminants, infiltrating the global food chain and posing potential risks to human health. This comprehensive review synthesizes current knowledge on the sources of MPs in food systems, pathways of human exposure primarily through ingestion, toxicological mechanisms including oxidative stress, inflammation, and endocrine disruption, and associated health implications such as metabolic disorders, immune responses, and reproductive toxicity. Drawing from epidemiological, experimental, and modeling studies, we evaluate the extent of exposure, bioaccumulation potential, and long-term effects. Risk assessment highlights uncertainties due to variable particle sizes, shapes, and chemical additives, while mitigation strategies emphasize reducing plastic production, improving waste management, and advancing detection methods. With evidence of MPs in human tissues like blood, placenta, and feces, urgent interdisciplinary research is needed to establish safety thresholds and inform public health policies.

کلیدواژه ها:

Microplastic ، MPs ، Toxicology