Everyday Foods Under the Microscope: 14 Microplastic Contaminants

This article surveys multiple studies showing microplastics contaminating 14 common foods and drinks—salt, seafood, sugar, beer, bottled water, honey, milk, cheese, tea, chewing gum, produce, coffee, rice, and meat—with contamination arising from packaging, farming and processing. It notes widespread exposure (e.g., 100% sugar contamination in recent studies; thousands of plastic particles per year from beverages and salt) and health concerns, while stressing complete avoidance is unlikely; practical steps to reduce exposure include choosing plastic-free packaging, washing produce and seafood, avoiding plastic tea bags and cups, and selecting alternative storage or packaging.