Microplastic and Nanoplastic Articles

Microplastics and nanoplastics, tiny plastic particles measuring less than 5 millimeters and 100 nanometers, respectively, are increasingly found throughout the environment. As larger pieces of plastic waste degrade, these particles accumulate in oceans, rivers, and soil, and are now detected in various aspects of human life, including food and drinking water. When micro- and nanoplastics enter the food chain, they pose potential risks to human health. Research suggests that these particles can carry harmful chemicals and pollutants, which, if ingested, may lead to various health effects, including inflammation, oxidative stress, and disruptions in cellular functions. Additionally, the evolving nature of micro- and nanoplastics—through interactions with environmental pollutants and chemical changes—further complicates their impact. Understanding how these particles accumulate and transform is essential for assessing their long-term effects on ecosystems and human health and for developing strategies to reduce their prevalence in the environment.