Investigation of the microplastic release potential of food contact non-woven fabrics by different separation methods

Considering the increasing use of plastic all over the world and the problem of plastic pollution, there is still a deficiency in the effects of this pollution on living things and humans. Although some studies emphasize that microplastics in food products may have negative effects on health through ingestion, the sources, amount and properties of microplastics ingested through food are not fully known. For these reasons, in order to determine the health effects of microplastics, it is essential to reveal the known or unknown sources of microplastics and the exposure doses accordingly. The main purpose of this study is to examine the microplastic and/or nanoplastic release of tea bags after a typical brewing process and to determine the microplastic fiber release potential using a different separation method. In the preliminary research of this study, it was revealed by ATR-FT-IR (Attenuated Total Reflection-Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrophotometer) analyzes that different polymers are used in addition to cellulose, especially in food contact nonwoven textile products. In this context, tea bags (infuser bags) samples of 10 different brands sold in the markets were examined. After brewing, microplastic fiber extraction was performed and the microplastic fibers were taken on a filter paper. Afterwards, it was stained with Nile red and examined under a fluorescent microscope. Microplastics found in all samples examined were classified according to their types. In addition, comparisons were made by direct treatment with peroxide and treatment with Cuam solution in the extraction stages. Along with the convenience of disposable tea bags in our daily life, the fact that they are seen quite often in the market aisles clearly shows that teapots are frequently used in our society. In addition to the cellulose material used in non-woven fabrics, polymer materials such as Polyethylene, Polypropylene and Polyester were used and the release potential was observed by separating with different methods.