(576b) Microplastics in Foods and Beverages

There is a growing interest in the plastic content in foods and beverages because of small particulates in air, water, and soil that contain synthetic chemicals. Some of these particulates, which often contain chemicals and microorganisms of concern, find their way into foods and beverages. Microplastics (plastics with size less than 5 mm in diameter) impact product quality and consumer behavior. The importance of addressing issues associated with microplastics in food and beverage manufacturing and processing is increasing because of greater emphasis on plastics in the environment and concerns about impacts on human health. Impacts of microplastics on aquatic ecosystems will also be addressed. The results of a review of the literature will be presented.