A new study discovered that some of the smallest plastic particles can penetrate crops by entering the roots and traveling to the edible parts of vegetables putting food safety and human health at risk. The study confirmed that humans and animals are consuming nanoplastics not just through seafood and water sources, but now through agriculture.
The team of scientists at the University of Plymouth used radishes as their model and designed an experiment using a hydroponic system. The vegetable was “exposed to a solution of polystyrene nanoparticles tagged with radiolabeled carbon” and “after five days, the researchers measured how many particles were absorbed,” according to Earth.com.
“…this study provides clear evidence that particles in the environment can accumulate not only in seafood but also in vegetables,” Professor Richard Thompson, director of the University of Plymouth International Marine Litter Research Unit, said. “This work forms part of our growing understanding on accumulation, and the potentially harmful effects of micro- and nanoparticles on human health.”
The scientists discovered that of the millions of nanoplastics that accumulated in the roots, a quarter moved to the edible tissues, while the leaves held 10 percent of the absorbed particles. In conclusion, the study said that nanoplastics are not confined to the surface of the root, but actually penetrates through the plant system. Dr. Nathaniel Clark, the study’s lead author, said that “there is no reason to believe this is unique to this vegetable, with the clear possibility that nanoplastics are being absorbed into various types of produce being grown all over the world,” Earth.com reported.
“Plants have a layer within their roots called the Casparian strip, which should act as a form of filter against particles, many of which can be harmful,” Clark said. “This is the first time a study has demonstrated nanoplastic particles could get beyond that barrier, with the potential for them to accumulate within plants and be passed on to anything that consumes them.”
The same research team has been studying nanoplastics for two decades and this experiment builds on their earlier findings that small plastic particles are present in fish and shellfish. With these plastic particles moving through the food chain, this newest study confirms that vegetables are also part of this cycle.
“To some extent, these findings shouldn’t be a surprise—after all, in all our previous work we have found microplastic pollution everywhere we have looked for it,” Thompson said.
While the food chain is interconnected, scientists are particularly concerned because “when crops absorb nanoplastics, these particles may pass on to livestock that consume them, eventually reaching humans through multiple dietary routes,” Earth.com reported.
“Understanding these pathways is essential if we are to limit exposure and protect both ecosystems and people.”
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