A Comprehensive Review of Environmental Microplastics: Food Web Transfer, Human Exposure, and Toxicological Implications

Abstract

Recent years have witnessed a rapid expansion of research on microplastics (MPs), driven by increasing recognition of their potential health implications. The opening section of this review addresses the environmental occurrence, distribution patterns, and quantification methodologies for MPs. These particles are transferred from environmental compartments to humans predominantly via inhalation, followed by ingestion, and to a lesser degree through dermal absorption. Regarding food web contamination, this review examines MP presence not only in extensively studied matrices such as seafood, potable water, and table salt, but also in other dietary sources including honey, sugar, milk, fruits, and various meats (chicken, beef, and pork). Collectively, the available literature indicates that human exposure to MPs through these pathways is substantial and warrants attention. Consequently, considerable scientific effort has focused on evaluating potential human health hazards. Toxicological investigations have progressed from aquatic organism models to experimental mammalian systems and human cell cultures