Microplastic and PTFE contamination of food from cookware

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Cole, MJ, Gomiero, A, Jaén-Gil, A, Haave, M and Lusher, A 2024 Microplastic and PTFE contamination of food from cookware. Science of The Total Environment, 929. 172577. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172577

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Official URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172577

Abstract/Summary

Microplastics are a prolific environmental contaminant that have been evidenced in human tissues. Human uptake of microplastic occurs via inhalation of airborne fibres and ingestion of microplastic-contaminated foods and beverages. Plastic and PTFE-coated cookware and food contact materials may release micro- and nano�plastics into food during food preparation. In this study, the extent to which non-plastic, new plastic and old plastic cookware releases microplastics into prepared food is investigated. Jelly is used as a food simulant, un�dergoing a series of processing steps including heating, cooling, mixing, slicing and storage to replicate food preparation steps undertaken in home kitchens. Using non-plastic cookware did not introduce microplastics to the food simulant. Conversely, using new and old plastic cookware resulted in significant increases in micro�plastic contamination. Microplastics comprised PTFE, polyethylene and polypropylene particulates and fibrous particles, ranging 13–318 μm. Assuming a meal was prepared daily per the prescribed methodology, new and old plastic cookware may be contributing 2409–4964 microplastics per annum into homecooked food. The health implications of ingesting microplastics remains unclear.

Item Type: Publication - Article
Additional Keywords: Plastic PFAS Human Exposure Food contact materials
Divisions: Plymouth Marine Laboratory > Science Areas > Marine Ecology and Biodiversity
Depositing User: S Hawkins
Date made live: 29 Apr 2024 09:12
Last Modified: 29 Apr 2024 09:12
URI: https://plymsea.ac.uk/id/eprint/10199

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