Microplastics Found in Dairy Products
A recent study from the University of Padua in Italy has discovered microplastics in almost all of the dairy products examined—this includes milk, fresh cheese, and ripened cheese. The findings revealed an average of 1,857 microplastic particles per kilogram in ripened cheese, 1,280 in fresh cheese, and around 350 in milk. It’s likely that these microplastics are stemming from the processing and packaging of these products.
While the study didn’t specifically investigate the health impacts of microplastics, earlier research has connected them to various health issues relating to the heart and liver, raising valid concerns about what this means for our food supply.
Microplastics are increasingly being found in many facets of our food—their presence has been noted in fish, tea, and even fresh vegetables. This latest peer-reviewed study, published in the journal NPJ Science of Food, adds dairy to that list.
The researchers analyzed 28 samples from stores, which included milk cartons, ten types of fresh cheese aged under a month, and 14 ripened cheeses aged over four months. To ensure accuracy, tests were conducted in a cleanroom environment, minimizing any chance of contamination.
After separating the dairy from potential microplastic particles, the team used a high-powered infrared microscope for identification. They found microplastic particles in 26 of the 28 dairy products tested, with the most common type being polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a plastic frequently used in packaging.
Notably, the amount of microplastics in cheese was considerably higher than in milk. Specifically, ripened cheese had about 1,857 particles per kilogram, which was significantly more than the 350 found in milk. The researchers suggested that microplastics could be introduced during the various steps involved in cheese processing.
It’s important to mention that the authors of the study focused on documenting the presence of microplastics without delving into their health implications. Nevertheless, a growing array of research indicates potential risks associated with microplastic consumption.
Various previous studies have pointed to serious health concerns linked to microplastics. For instance, one study suggested that they might accumulate in arterial plaque among patients with cardiovascular disease, leading to various health issues.
Another set of findings highlighted microplastics in various human organs, such as the lungs, blood, and even the liver. There’s a bit of helplessness in addressing the existing environmental contamination, but there are some strategies to limit personal exposure to microplastics in everyday life.
