Research regarding plastic pollution has increased recently, particularly focusing on micro and nanoplastics which are of concern to environmental and human health due to their small size. Micro and nanoplastics have been detected in environmental samples (soil, water, air, etc.), in food, and in a variety of human samples including stool, lung tissue, liver tissue, blood, urine, hair, saliva, placenta and breast milk. Additionally, ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contact have been identified as possible sources of human exposure to these plastics. Studies have indicated that the possible health effects of micro and nanoplastics might include cell inflammation, or the plastics might act as a carrier for other toxic chemicals or microbes and possibly move through and accumulate in the body.
One potential pathway of exposure to micro and nanoplastics is mother-infant exposure. Unfortunately, there is very little known about this type of exposure and the effects it has on infants. Understanding the health impact this may have on children is of crucial importance as it has been proven that early exposure to toxic substances is dangerous and can lead to prolonged health and developmental issues. Therefore, the aim of this project is to study micro and nanoplastics in baby products such as breast milk storage bags and other plastic storage containers, infant formula, and breast milk and evaluate if these are a source of exposure for infants.
