Evidence, implications and mitigation of plastic-derived contaminants in infant food: a systematic review

Abstract

Infants are particularly vulnerable to dietary plastic-derived contaminants, including microplastics, nanoplastics, and synthetic oligomers. Their higher food intake relative to body mass amplifies potential exposure and associated risks. Despite this, exposure pathways and health impacts remain poorly understood. Here, we present the first systematic review of infant dietary exposure, incorporating evidence on nanoplastics and oligomers, which constitute almost half (45%) of the current research landscape. Our analysis identifies critical quality control gaps in the methodologies used to gather data on contaminant release, such as insufficient blank or compositional analyses, which limit the robustness of exposure estimates. Without a reliable understanding of exposure, regulators are constrained in evaluating risks. Hence, we outline a single priority to advance the field: adopting standardised exposure assessment approaches to improve data collection for regulatory frameworks and enable the development of effective mitigation strategies.