Omar Khalid
Plastic contamination in food is a growing concern, with plastic being the leading cause of physical food contamination in the United States in 2018. The presence of plasticizers, phthalates, and bisphenols like BPA in food can have harmful effects on human health. While the human body can eliminate these chemicals, constant exposure means they enter our systems almost as quickly as they are expelled. The challenge of detecting plastic in food is due to its low relative density, making it difficult for X-ray systems to identify. However, there are methods to test for plastic in food, including microscopic evaluation, density tests, and filtering. Advanced testing in laboratories can provide a clearer understanding of microplastic presence and health risks. Additionally, food producers can use high-density plastics and X-ray visible tools to improve detection and reduce contamination risks.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic is a cost- and time-saving material for food manufacturers | Plastic is one of the most common items found in a food plant and is essential to the food manufacturing process |
| Plastic is difficult to detect in food | Plastic is the most difficult physical contaminant for inline X-ray systems to detect because of its low relative density |
| Plastic is hazardous to human health | Bisphenols and phthalates are harmful chemicals that can be found in food |
| Plastic is difficult to eliminate from food production | Many processing machines have plastic parts, so it is difficult to eliminate plastic from the production environment |
| Plastic contamination is costly for food manufacturers | Food recalls due to plastic contamination cost manufacturers millions of dollars |
| Plastic can be detected with X-ray inspection | X-ray inspection systems can detect plastic if it has a high enough density |
| Plastic can be detected with microscopic evaluation | Microscopic evaluation can help identify the source of small hard plastic contaminants |
| Plastic can be detected with visual and physical evaluation | Calibrated micrometers and other physical properties can be used to identify plastic contaminants |
| Plastic can be mitigated with colour-coding | Colour-coding detectable plastic can help trace fragments that end up in food products |
| Plastic can be mitigated with X-ray visible tools | Using X-ray visible tools and accessories can help detect plastic fragments with X-ray inspection |
| Plastic can be mitigated with metal-detectable plastic | Infusing plastic with metal can make it detectable with food plants that use inline metal detectors |
| Plastic can be detected with density tests and filtering | Density tests and filtering can be used to detect microplastics in food at home |
| Plastic can be detected with laboratory testing | Sending food samples to a laboratory for advanced testing is the most accurate method for detecting microplastics |
| Plastic can be regulated | The FDA regulates plastics used in food contact applications to ensure consumer exposure is safe |
| Plastic can be reduced with alternative materials | Food producers can minimise the use of plastic in the production environment to reduce the risk of contamination |
| Plastic can be reduced with inspection | Food producers can implement proper inspection equipment to ensure the safety of food products |
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What You'll Learn
- Density tests and filtering methods can be used to detect microplastics
- X-ray inspections are used to detect plastic in food
- Calibrated micrometers can identify the thickness of plastic contaminants
- Flame testing can be used to identify certain plastics
- Food producers can minimise the use of plastic in the production environment
Density tests and filtering methods can be used to detect microplastics
Microplastics are plastic particles measuring less than 5 millimetres in size. They can be categorised into two main groups: primary and secondary. Primary microplastics are intentionally produced small plastic particles used in products like exfoliating facial scrubs, toothpaste, and industrial abrasives. Secondary microplastics result from the fragmentation of larger plastic items, such as bottles and bags, by environmental forces such as sunlight and waves. These tiny plastic particles have been found in a variety of food products, including seafood, honey, beer, bottled water, salt, fruit and vegetables, and processed foods.
Due to the small size of microplastics, they are often invisible to the naked eye, making detection challenging. However, density tests and filtering methods can be employed to identify their presence. One simple density test suggested by Dr Narendra Singhla involves filling a clear glass a quarter full with a dense liquid such as vegetable oil, corn syrup, or honey. A small amount of the food sample is then added, and the mixture is stirred. If microplastics are present, they may float to the top, form layers or clumps, or sink unevenly. It is important to note that this method has limitations and may not detect all microplastics, especially in solid foods.
Another approach to detecting microplastics is through filtering methods. LifeStraw, for example, offers products that utilise membrane microfilters capable of blocking particulates and pathogens larger than 0.2 microns in size, effectively capturing microplastics. Their ultrafilters can block particles as small as 0.02 microns, which are, in principle, effective at blocking nanoplastic particles. Independent lab testing has shown that LifeStraw filters can remove an impressive 99.999% of microplastic particles in water.
In addition to these methods, microscopic evaluation of contaminants may also be necessary, especially when investigating small hard plastic contaminants. While these techniques can help identify the presence of microplastics, it is important to recognise that completely eliminating plastic contamination in food production is challenging due to the ubiquitous nature of plastic in processing environments.
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X-ray inspections are used to detect plastic in food
X-ray inspections are a common method used to detect plastic in food. This technology is used by food manufacturers to ensure food quality and safety. X-ray inspections can detect both metallic and non-metallic contaminants, including metal, glass, plastic, stone, and bone. They can also identify missing pieces in a finished product and reject those that are incomplete.
X-ray inspection systems can see through all types of packaging, including metal cans, plastic, paper, cardboard, glass, and ceramics. However, the accuracy of the inspection depends on the packaging material. For example, metal cans can be challenging for X-ray inspections due to their medium density, and the presence of extra items like pull tabs can affect the accuracy of some types of inspection machines. On the other hand, plastic containers are low-density, which improves accuracy from X-ray inspection machines. The shape of plastic packaging may occasionally cause issues, but these are minimal compared to other packaging types.
The quality of an X-ray inspection system is essential, as some systems can detect materials that others cannot. For example, TDI Packsys' MDX technology can detect plastic contaminants that standard X-ray systems miss. This technology simplifies X-ray imagery and identifies materials by atomic number rather than density.
To increase the chances of detecting plastic contaminants, some manufacturers use materials that are more X-ray detectable than regular plastics. X-ray visible plastics are enriched with high-density materials to ease detection. Additionally, food producers can use X-ray visible tools, pens, gloves, and band-aids in the production environment to minimize the risk of plastic contamination.
Overall, X-ray inspections are a valuable tool for detecting plastic in food, ensuring food safety, and maintaining the integrity of food products.
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Calibrated micrometers can identify the thickness of plastic contaminants
Plastic contamination in food is a serious issue. Food producers should minimise the use of plastic in the production environment to eliminate the possibility of plastic contamination. However, it is challenging to completely eradicate plastic from the production environment as many processing machines contain plastic parts.
One method to identify plastic contaminants is to use calibrated micrometers to measure the thickness of the plastic. A micrometer is a device that incorporates a calibrated screw for the accurate measurement of the size of components. The object to be measured is placed between the spindle and the anvil, and the spindle is moved by turning the ratchet knob or thimble until the object is lightly touched by both the spindle and the anvil. This allows for the precise measurement of the thickness of the plastic contaminant.
Calibrated micrometers are widely used in mechanical engineering, machining, and metrology, as well as in most mechanical trades. They are particularly useful for measuring the thickness of plastic contaminants in food because they can provide accurate measurements without damaging the food product.
In addition to calibrated micrometers, other techniques such as microscopic evaluation, X-ray inspection, and visual and physical screening can also be employed to identify and mitigate plastic contaminants in food products. It is important to implement proper inspection equipment to ensure the safety of food products and protect consumers and food brands from the harmful effects of plastic contamination.
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Flame testing can be used to identify certain plastics
Flame testing is one of the methods used to identify plastics in food safety. Other methods include microscopic evaluation of contaminants, especially when investigating the source of small hard plastic contaminants. Ultra-high molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMW PE) is the most widely used plastic in food processing facilities. Its use in conveyor guide rails can lead to plastic-to-plastic frictional wear.
Flame testing is also known as combustion (fire) testing and is used to assess the flammability characteristics of plastics. There are two preselection test programs conducted on plastic materials to measure flammability. The first program, described in UL 94, determines whether the material will extinguish or spread the flame once ignited. The second program, described in UL 746A, measures the ignition resistance of the plastic to electrical ignition sources.
The test specimens are exposed to a specified test flame under controlled laboratory conditions, and the burning characteristics are observed. These characteristics are then used to distinguish the material and assign it to a flame classification. The classifications are based on the intended use of the material, such as in enclosures, structural parts, insulators, or low-density foam materials.
Overall, flame testing is a valuable tool for identifying plastics, but it should be used with caution due to the potential release of hazardous gases.
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Food producers can minimise the use of plastic in the production environment
Plastic contamination in food is a serious issue, with plasticizers such as phthalates and bisphenols like BPA, entering our food and, in turn, our bodies. These chemicals can have harmful effects on human health, and it is difficult to trace any particular bad health outcome to them. The battle against plastic contamination in food is challenging, but food producers can take several steps to minimise the use of plastic in the production environment.
Firstly, it is important to acknowledge the risk of contamination and take steps to reduce exposure. This can include using alternative materials in the production process, such as cardboard, metal, glass, or polycarbonate. For example, farmers can switch from plastic pots and harvest bags to cardboard boxes and reusable crates. Food producers can also reduce plastic packaging by using paper and metal twist ties, cardboard containers, and biodegradable bags.
Secondly, food producers should invest in proper inspection equipment to ensure the safety of their food products. X-ray inspection systems can be used to detect plastic contaminants, especially when using high-density plastics or X-ray visible plastic in the production environment. Microscopic evaluation of contaminants may also be necessary, especially when dealing with small, hard plastic contaminants.
Additionally, food producers can advocate for broader access to recycling infrastructure and support the development of extended producer responsibility programs. This ensures that companies are accountable for the waste generated by their products and encourages the reduction and reuse of plastic. Implementing the 6R model (Refuse, Reduce, Redesign, Reuse, Recycle, and Recover) can also help minimise plastic use and reduce plastic pollution.
Finally, food producers can support and comply with national and international policies and regulations aimed at reducing disposable plastic use. This includes bans on single-use plastic bags and straws, as well as incentives for recycling and the development of alternative materials. By taking these steps, food producers can play a crucial role in minimising the use of plastic in the production environment and reducing plastic contamination in food.
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Frequently asked questions
Testing for plastic in food at home is not entirely reliable, but there are a few methods you can try. One way is to use a coffee filter or a 0.1-micron filter, especially for liquids. Pour the liquid through the filter and examine the residue for tiny particles that don't dissolve or look out of place. For solids, like salt or sugar, you can perform a simple shake test: shake the container and pour some of the contents onto a dark surface to check for plastic particles.
Bisphenols and phthalates, which are commonly found in plastics, can be harmful to your health. While the human body can eliminate these chemicals, constant exposure means they enter our blood and tissue almost as quickly as they're eliminated. The harmful effects may be cumulative, so even very small amounts over time could increase health risks.
Food manufacturers can take several steps to reduce plastic contamination. Firstly, they can minimise the use of plastic in the production environment. They can also use X-ray-visible tools and accessories, as well as opt for high-density plastics, which are easier to detect with X-ray inspection systems. Color-coding detectable plastic can also help trace fragments that end up in food products.
