Accumulation of Microplastics in the Food chain: Recent advances, Key issues, Human Health Implications, and Preventive measures

Synthetic polymer particles with a diameter of less than 5 mm, or microplastics, are widely used in numerous industries and have a long lifespan. These are termed as pollutants because of their widespread application in a variety of industries and long lifespan. The manufacture of plastics has increased significantly since 1950, causing serious environmental contamination, particularly in aquatic environments where rivers carry 70–80% of these plastics into the ocean. Their distribution is influenced by wind, tides, and wave currents; plastic makes up 75% of oceanic waste. Urban runoff, plastic waste, cosmetics, synthetic textiles, and industrial abrasives are the main sources of microplastics. They enhance immunological reactions, oxidative stress, and other health problems in both people and wildlife. Reducing single-use plastics, enhancing waste management, creating substitute materials, and developing microbial degradation strategies are all necessary to control microplastic pollution.