Alarming discovery: scientists have found potentially dangerous tiny particles in almost all seafood

The Northwest Pacific coast is famous for its seafood. However, the researchers made an alarming discovery: particles of waste and pollution were found in the edible tissue of almost all fish and shellfish caught for sale.

About 150 years ago, mankind invented plastic, and today it seems that it has taken over the entire planet. Earlier, micro-particles of plastic were already found in the soil, water, and even in the air. Now, just like salmon returning to their birthplace, ocean plastic seems to be finding its way back to its creators, Science Alert writes.

In the study, the researchers analyzed 182 marine species, including sea bass, lingcod, Chinook salmon, Pacific herring, Pacific lamprey, and pink shrimp. The results raised serious concerns: only two of these individuals were free of suspicious particles. The researchers concluded that the seafood tissues contained fibers of dyed cotton, cellulose from paper and cardboard products, and microscopic particles of plastic.

The co-author of the study, ecotoxicologist Suzanne Brander from the University of Oregon, noted that the results are of serious concern. Microfibers are likely to move from the gut to other tissues, including muscles. Scientists can't say for sure, but suggest that this could have significant implications for other organisms, including humans.

Recent studies have also shown that people who consume seafood more often tend to have more microplastics in their bodies. This is especially true for those who eat bivalves such as oysters or mussels.

It is currently unknown how long plastic stays in the body and what impact it can have. Scientists emphasize that this issue requires urgent research. Susanne Brander and her colleagues do not call for a complete abandonment of seafood, but emphasize the importance of being aware of the possible risks for both people and scientists.

Studies show that particles of paint, soot, and microplastics are so widespread that they have already been found not only in seafood but also in air, water, and other products.

Environmental scientist Elisa Granek of Portland State University notes that when plastic products are disposed of or used, microscopic particles inevitably get into the environment. These particles are absorbed by other organisms, which eventually end up on our table.

The study conducted in Oregon is the first of its kind in the region. It demonstrated the alarming prevalence of microplastics in edible seafood.

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