A new report from EarthAction and rePurpose Global points to packaging as a significant pathway for microplastic contamination in food and drinks. The study, From Pack to Plate, estimates that around 1,000 tonnes of microplastics enter food annually through plastic packaging, contributing to human exposure.
According to the findings, consumers ingest on average about 130mg of micro- and nanoplastics each year, equivalent to billions of particles. For high-use consumers, intake can exceed one gram annually. While packaging is not the largest overall source of microplastics in the environment, the report stresses its importance as a direct and predictable route into the human diet.
The research identifies polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles as responsible for around one third of packaging-related exposure. Rigid PET containers and flexible polyethylene packaging also make a notable contribution. Design features such as caps, closures and multi-component systems can increase particle release due to friction, while conditions such as sunlight exposure or UV light can raise emissions significantly. Heating processes, including hot filling or microwaving, may further increase release levels.
The report also raises concerns about health implications, noting that ingested particles can carry chemicals such as endocrine disruptors and carcinogens. It points out that many particles are small enough to enter biological systems.
EarthAction and rePurpose Global argue that better packaging design and testing under real use conditions could reduce exposure, with targeted improvements in materials and structures offering immediate opportunities for change.