Bangladesh study detects microplastics in every tested dried seafood sample

Researchers found microplastics in every commercially dried seafood sample they examined from four coastal areas of Bangladesh, The Financial Express reported Oct. 26, citing a study published in Marine Pollution Bulletin.

The University of Chittagong team examined six seafood species from the Sundarbans, Kuakata, Teknaf, and Cox’s Bazar. Concentrations ranged from 0.25 to 1.30 particles per gram of dry weight. Fibers were the most common particle shape.

Regional averages varied, but the researchers found no statistically significant difference in particle abundance among the four areas. The findings apply to the tested samples and do not establish contamination levels in all seafood sold nationally.

The study calls for comparisons before and after drying to distinguish marine pollution from contamination during processing and handling. Further dietary-exposure research is needed to establish implications for consumers and food safety.