High Levels of Microplastics Found in Seafood Off the Western U.S. Coast, Research Reveals

Microplastics have been detected in nearly every seafood sample collected off the western coast of the United States, according to a recent study conducted by researchers at Portland State University (PSU). The findings highlight serious environmental concerns regarding human impacts on marine ecosystems.

The Study’s Findings

The research identified anthropogenic particles—materials created or altered by human activity—in the edible tissues of six distinct fish species. The examined species include black rockfish, lingcod, Chinook salmon, Pacific herring, Pacific lamprey, and pink shrimp, as detailed in a PSU press release.

This peer-reviewed study revealed microplastics in 180 out of 182 seafood samples, whether purchased from stores or collected directly from fishing vessels in Oregon. Notably, the highest concentrations of microplastics were found in pink shrimp, whereas Chinook salmon had the lowest levels.

Research Insights on Marine Life

Elise Granek, a microplastics researcher and co-author of the study, commented, “We found that the smaller organisms we sampled seem to absorb more anthropogenic, non-nutritious particles.” She explained that shrimp and small fish, like herring, consume minute food items, such as zooplankton, which may be confused with microplastics in their environment.

Implications for Human Health

Susanne Brander, an ecotoxicologist at Oregon State University, expressed concern over microfibers migrating from the gut into other tissues, including muscle. This raises questions about their impact not only on marine organisms but potentially on human health as well.

The study’s results were published in the journal Frontiers in Toxicology. Granek advised against avoiding seafood entirely, as microplastics are also prevalent in various other food sources.

Understanding the Risks

Bing Wang, Ph.D., an associate professor specializing in food safety risk assessment at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, emphasized that the presence of microplastics in seafood does not imply an immediate health hazard. “The term ‘safe’ is relative in toxicology,” he stated, underlining that toxicity is contingent upon exposure duration and dose. Currently, there is no definitive link between the ingestion of microplastics and adverse health effects in humans.

Nutritional Benefits vs. Risks

Despite these concerns, experts underscore the nutritional advantages of seafood, including high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Wang remarked, “No current evidence suggests that seafood consumption poses an immediate danger to human health.”

The research further noted that not only microplastics but also nanoplastics are present in the environment. Unlike microplastics, which typically pass through the digestive system with minimal absorption, nanoplastics can cross biological barriers and potentially accumulate in organs.

Environmental Context

According to PSU’s findings, 80% of identified microplastics originated from textile fibers. Andrew Ortiz, a Ph.D. student studying food science and technology at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, pointed out that plastic production has surged by approximately 8.7% annually since the 1960s. Much of this contamination results from human behaviors such as improper disposal of plastics and inadequate waste management.

Wang affirmed the challenge of completely avoiding microplastics since they are widespread in various environments and food sources, not limited to seafood. She stated, “While this study is the first of its kind in the Oregon region, its findings resonate with global research on microplastic contamination in seafood.”

A Broader Context for Microplastics

The presence of microplastics in seafood should be viewed within a larger environmental framework. As humans ingest microplastics from multiple sources—such as water, air, and packaged foods—they must consider the risks not as isolated incidents, but as part of a greater ecological impact.

The PSU study received funding from Oregon Sea Grant at Oregon State University. As awareness grows regarding microplastic pollution, continued research will be essential in understanding its implications for marine life and human health alike.