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The impact of microplastics on the gut microbiome and health

A food safety perspective

Year of publication 2023

Place of publication Rome, Italy ;

Pages 58 p.

Author FAO

Publisher FAO ;

Product type Book (series)

ISBN 978-92-5-137807-6

Series title Food Safety and Quality Series

Series number No. 21

Synopsis (short abstract) With a food safety focus, a scientific literature review was conducted to characterize the current understanding about the effects of microplastics on the gut microbiome and potential health implications. The main aspects analysed are (1) the effects of microplastics on the composition, diversity and function of gut microbiome using in vito and in vivo models; (2) health implications resulting from the microplastic–microbiome interactions and underlying mechanisms; (3) the establishment of causality; and (4) influence of the gut microbiome on microplastic biodegradation. The research was also scoped to identify current gaps, limitations and needs for the eventual consideration of microbiome-related data in chemical risk assessment. With this work, ESF contributes to the FAO global programme on the impact of food systems on NCDs and obesity, by understanding the potential health implications of gut microbiome–microplastic interactions. The outcomes will provide information which can be used to improve food safety policies.

Cite this content as:

FAO. 2023. The impact of microplastics on the gut microbiome and health – A food safety perspective. Food Safety and Quality Series, No. 21. Rome.

https://doi.org/10.4060/cc5294en

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Language English

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