New Delhi: A recent study by Toxics Link, a prominent environmental advocacy organization, has revealed troubling levels of microplastics in various brands of salt and sugar sold in India. This comprehensive research assessed both packaged and unpackaged products available online and in local markets, highlighting significant contamination concerns.Key findings of researchThe Toxics Link report, released on Wednesday indicates that iodized packaged salt contains the highest levels of microplastics compared to other salt types. Conversely, organic rock salt exhibited the lowest levels of contamination. Ravi Agarwal, Founder and Director of Toxics Link, commented, “The most concerning finding was that iodized salt showed a higher concentration of microplastics, including multicolored thin fibers and films.” This result underscores potential issues with the production and packaging processes of iodized salt.Methodology and analysisThe study involved testing ten different varieties of salt and five sugar samples, sourced from both online retailers and local markets. The selection included several branded products, with only two salt samples and one sugar sample being unbranded. The tested salt samples comprised three types of packaged iodized salt, three rock salts (including two organic brands), two sea salts, and two local salt brands.Microplastics were found in varying quantities and sizes across the salt samples, ranging from 6.71 to 89.15 pieces per kilogram of dry weight. These particles ranged in size from 0.1 mm to 5 mm and were detected in forms such as fibers, pellets, films, and fragments. A similar range of microplastic sizes was observed in the sugar samples, where they were predominantly fibers, followed by movies and pellets. The microplastics in both sugar and salt samples were of various colors, including transparent, white, blue, red, black, violet, green, and yellow.Implications and recommendationsRavi Agarwal emphasized the significance of this study in expanding the scientific understanding of microplastic contamination. “Our study aims to contribute valuable data to the global plastic treaty discussions, ensuring this issue is addressed effectively and with a focused approach,” Agarwal stated. He also highlighted the need for policy action and technological innovations to minimize exposure risks associated with microplastics.Microplastics in food products are emerging as a major global health and environmental issue. With increasing evidence of their adverse effects, it is crucial to implement measures to prevent and reduce plastic pollution in the food supply chain.
