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New evidence map shows normal use of plastic packaging contaminates food with micro- and nanoplastics

In an article published in npj Science of Food, scientists led by the Food Packaging Forum show that the normal and intended use of plastic food packaging and other food contact articles (FCAs), such as opening a plastic bottle or chopping on a plastic cutting board, can contaminate foodstuffs with micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs).

The article describes how the authors systematically evaluated 103 previously published studies investigating plastic particles less than 10 mm in foodstuffs or food simulants that had been in contact with an FCA made partly or entirely of plastic.

"This is the first systematic evidence map to investigate the role of the normal and intended use of food contact articles in the contamination of foodstuffs with MNPs," explains Dr. Lisa Zimmermann, lead author of the new study and Scientific Communication Officer at the Food Packaging Forum. "Food contact articles are a relevant source of MNPs in foodstuffs; however, their contribution to human MNP exposure is underappreciated."

The collected data are freely accessible through the easy-to-navigate . This tool allows users to filter included data by the type of FCA, the main food contact material, the medium analyzed, and whether MNPs were detected, and if so, for their size and polymer type.

"This systematic evidence map helps fill gaps in knowledge on the source of MNPs in foodstuffs," says Dr. Jane Muncke, co-author of the study and Managing Director and Chief Scientific Officer at the Food Packaging Forum.

"However, it also shows that additional research is needed to better characterize MNP migration related to FCA materials and uses. Importantly, implementing a harmonized testing and reporting framework is key to ensuring reliable and comparable data, which can inform future policy decisions."

According to the researchers, enacting regulations that mandate MNP migration testing for FCAs can help better protect consumers from the potential human health impacts of MNPs. Consumers can also prevent exposure by choosing plastic-free packaging and kitchen utensils.