Microplastics found in feed, blood, meat, and milk of Dutch farm animals

Researchers from the Vrije Universiteit (Amsterdam, the Netherlands) have found microplastics in beef and pork samples, and in the feed, blood and milk of Dutch cows and pigs.  

The study, commissioned by Plastic Soup Foundation, an environmental non-profit association, reveals that more than 70% of the products tested contained microplastics.  

The scientists found plastic particles in every sample of blood, in 18 of 25 milk samples, in 7 of 8 beef samples, and in 5 of 8 pork samples.  

The feed has been identified as “one of the possible exposure routes”, as all of the 12 samples of feed pellets and shredded feed tested contained microplastics. On the other hand, no traces of plastic have been found in fresh feed (e.g. hay and vegetables).  

“This study raises serious concerns about the contamination of our food chain with microplastics,” said Maria Westerbos, director of the Plastic Soup Foundation. However, considering the relatively small size of their study, the researchers warned against drawing too large conclusions.  

This pilot study was conducted to assess whether plastic particles are present in detectable concentrations in modern animal feed, the animals that eat it, and in the food products of animal origin. According to the VU researchers, the results should stimulate the start of further research to understand the extent of exposure and the possible associated risks.      

 

Source:  

https://www.plasticsoupfoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Final-Report-pilot-study-plastic-particles-in-livestock-feed-milk-meat-and-blood-SIGNED.pdf