Summary
This field study provides the first empirical evidence that micro- and macroplastic particles present in agricultural soil can be transferred through terrestrial food chains to edible animal tissues consumed by humans. Conducted in traditional Mayan home gardens in Southeast Mexico, the research demonstrates a clear bioaccumulation gradient, with microplastic concentrations increasing from soil (0.87 particles g⁻¹) through earthworm casts (14.8 particles g⁻¹) to chicken faeces (129.8 particles g⁻¹), and chicken gizzards accumulating 10.2 microplastic particles on average. The findings highlight a previously unexamined food safety pathway in regions where waste management practices are inadequate.
UK applicability
Whilst this study was conducted in Mexico's specific agricultural and waste management context, the underlying mechanisms of plastic transfer through soil food webs are relevant to UK farming systems, particularly where plastic mulches, irrigation films and contaminated composts are used. UK poultry systems and home gardens with poor waste segregation practices may warrant similar assessment, though the severity of contamination is likely lower given stricter waste management regulations.
Key measures
Microplastic particle concentration (particles per gram dry weight) in soil, earthworm casts, chicken faeces, crops and gizzards; macroplastic particle counts per gizzard and crop; particle size distribution (1–10 mm vs. >10 mm fractions)
Outcomes reported
The study measured concentrations of micro- and macroplastic particles in soil, earthworm casts, chicken faeces, crops and chicken gizzards in traditional Mayan home gardens. It documented a bioaccumulation pathway showing plastic transfer from soil through biological intermediaries to edible animal tissues.
Topic tags
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