Assessment of potential health risk from microplastic contamination in packaged frozen seafood

Can Tunçelli İ., Erkan N., Sarıçam M., Harbeck S.

Food Chemistry, vol.506, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 506
  • Publication Date: 2026
  • Doi Number: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2026.148166
  • Journal Name: Food Chemistry
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, BIOSIS, Chemical Abstracts Core, Chimica, Compendex, EMBASE, MEDLINE
  • Keywords: Consumer risks, Food contact material, Health risk assessment, Microplastic pollution, Seafood safety
  • Istanbul University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Microplastic (MP) pollution poses rising risks to environmental and food safety, with seafood a key exposure route. Although MP contamination in seafood is well-studied, data on processed, vacuum-packaged frozen seafood remain limited. This study examined six widely consumed frozen seafood products, Manila clam, Chilean mussel, deep-water rose shrimp, European anchovy, European pilchard, and saithe, using micro-Raman spectroscopy to assess potential contamination sources. MPs were detected in all samples, totaling 421 particles, mostly black and blue fibers measuring 1–5 mm. Dominant polymers included polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), poly (vinyl chloride) (PVC), and poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA). Several hazardous additives, such as poly (acrylic acid) (PAA), di-n-butyltin dichloride (DBTDC), and 3,3′-diaminobenzidine (DAB), were also identified. Risk assessment indicated species-dependent exposure, with European pilchard and saithe showing higher potential risks that varied with regional and global consumption patterns. Findings highlight the need for continuous monitoring and safer packaging across the seafood supply chain.