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Milk Contaminated: Microplastics Found in Every Sample
21 Sep
Summary
- Microplastic particles discovered in both packaged and raw cow milk.
- Study analyzed milk from Kolkata, finding 3 to 30 particles per liter.
- Researchers cite packaging and farm handling as main contamination sources.
A comprehensive study has revealed the presence of microplastic particles in both packaged and raw cow milk available in the Kolkata region. Researchers analyzed nine milk samples, encompassing popular commercial brands and local raw milk sources.
Laboratory findings indicated contamination across all samples, with microplastic counts ranging from 3 to 30 particles per liter. The predominant particles identified were tiny fibers and fragments, mainly composed of polyethylene and polypropylene. These are commonly found in plastic packaging, suggesting it as a primary route for contamination.
Evidence of microplastics in raw milk also points to contamination occurring prior to packaging, potentially during farm handling or processing stages. This finding has prompted calls for immediate global action, including stricter monitoring and the exploration of non-plastic packaging alternatives to address growing health concerns associated with microplastic ingestion.
