Toward a unified framework for investigating micro(nano)plastics in packaged beverages intended for human consumption

The continuously increasing presence of micro- and nanoplastics contamination in numerous food products for human consumption is threatening and their potential health effects towards humans remain uncertain. At present, investigations on packaged beverages (e.g. bottled drinking water, beer, milk and refreshments) have received scientific attention and represent an important part of microplastic research as humans are orally exposed to these anthropogenic contaminants every day. Rapid and effective detection methods are important to quantify micro- and nanoplastic particles with a great accuracy as well as to identify their sources and characteristics. A number of methods are currently in use to assess microplastics in packaged beverages; however, the great variations in methods and data acquisition render difficulties when comparing the results and developing the protocols. Based on the challenges, this paper aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of emerging technological approaches, points out the current limitations from sample preparation to quantification and present recommendations. From the results of our analysis, we postulate an example framework that can be applied to different types of drinking products for investigating micro- and nanoplastics. Overall, this review will serve as a first step towards harmonization of micro- and nanoplastic monitoring efforts and a point of reference to help direct future researches focusing on drinking products intended for human consumption. (C) 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

This study focuses on the contamination of micro- and nanoplastics in packaged beverages, emphasizing on rapid and effective detection methods and addressing the difficulties caused by variations in methods. The results propose a framework for investigating various types of beverage products, aiming to harmonize monitoring efforts for micro- and nanoplastics and serve as a reference for future research.