Environmental Pollutants in Food Systems: Pathways of Contamination, Bioaccumulation, and Human Health Risks

Abstract

This study examines environmental pollutants in food systems, focusing on contamination pathways, bioaccumulation processes, and associated human health risks. Environmental pollutants, including heavy metals, pesticides, persistent organic pollutants, and emerging contaminants such as microplastics, are introduced into ecosystems through industrial, agricultural, and urban activities. Using a qualitative Systematic Literature Review (SLR) approach, this study synthesizes recent research to identify key patterns linking environmental contamination to food system exposure. The findings indicate that pollutants enter food systems through soil, water, and biological pathways, and are further amplified by bioaccumulation and biomagnification processes across food chains. These processes lead to continuous and cumulative human exposure through dietary intake. At the biological level, mechanisms such as oxidative stress and cellular disruption contribute to potential adverse health outcomes. This study highlights the need for integrated approaches that connect environmental management, food safety, and toxicological risk assessment.