Risk assessment of silver and microplastics release from antibacterial food containers under conventional use and microwave heating

The evaluation of the migration of ionic silver and nanoparticulated silver (AgNPs) from antimicrobial plastic packaging to food is crucial to ensure its safety. Migration assays were performed on reusable silver-containing polypropylene (PP) food containers and a silicone baby bottle, using food simulants, under conventional or microwave heating and repeated use. The PP containers released significant amounts of silver, increasing with temperature, contact time, acidity and lower crystallinity. Silver migration in the silicone bottle was much lower. Risk assessment of released silver was done considering European authorities safety recommendations, with some containers far exceeding these levels. No significant AgNPs release was detected in the simulants by single particle-ICPMS. Silver-containing microplastics and silicone microparticles were detected by SEM in the food simulants after the migration assays. Consumers may be continuously exposed to the harmful effects of ionic silver and microplastics, which can potentially lead to health issues.

Automated summary

The evaluation of migration of ionic silver and nanoparticulated silver from antimicrobial plastic packaging to food is essential for ensuring its safety. Migration assays were conducted on reusable silver-containing polypropylene (PP) food containers and a silicone baby bottle using food simulants, under different conditions. The PP containers released significant amounts of silver, while migration in the silicone bottle was much lower. Risk assessment showed that some containers exceeded the safety levels recommended by European authorities. No significant release of AgNPs was detected, but silver-containing microplastics and silicone microparticles were found in the food simulants. Continuous exposure to ionic silver and microplastics could potentially lead to health issues.