Microplastics in the food chain

Plastic does not biodegrade — it breaks down into smaller and smaller fragments. Microplastics, typically defined as particles under 5 mm, are now found in oceans, rivers, soil, and the air we breathe.

From packaging to plate

Most ocean plastic starts on land: bags, bottles, and synthetic textiles shed fibres during washing. Over time, UV light and wave action fragment these materials. Fish and shellfish ingest particles that resemble plankton. Studies have detected microplastics in table salt, bottled water, beer, and honey.

Health implications

Research is still emerging, but concerns include inflammation, hormone disruption from chemical additives like BPA and phthalates, and the transfer of persistent organic pollutants that attach to plastic surfaces. The full human health impact remains uncertain, but exposure is widespread and rising.

What you can do

Reduce single-use plastics, choose natural fibres over synthetics where possible, and support policies that hold producers responsible for packaging waste. Individual choices matter, but systemic change — better waste infrastructure and design-for-recycling — is essential at scale.