Microplastic Contamination in Fish Feed: A Growing Concern

*Graphical summary of the research. Source: Devi et al., (2024); Journal of Hazardous Materials, 135621.*

Microplastics (MP) have become a widespread environmental contaminant infiltrating various ecosystems, including aquatic environments. Aquaculture, as a major source of fish and seafood production, is not immune to the impact of microplastic contamination.

A team of researchers from the University of Kerala (India) analyzed ten widely used commercial fish feeds in aquaculture across six countries on three continents to assess microplastic (MP) contamination.

Contenidos ocultar

1 Microplastics in Aquaculture Feeds

2 Health Risks Associated with Microplastic Ingestion

3 The Research

4 Analysis of Microplastic Contamination in Fish Feeds

5 Polymer Hazard Index (PHI)

6 Implications for Aquaculture

7 Conclusion

Microplastics in Aquaculture Feeds

Microplastics (MP), small plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in size, have become a widespread environmental contaminant. These particles can enter aquaculture systems through various pathways, including contaminated water sources, plastic debris from fishing gear, and the use of fishmeal and fish oil in feeds.

Fishmeal and fish oil, essential ingredients in aquaculture feeds, are often derived from marine resources that may contain microplastics. The processing and handling of these raw materials can also introduce additional MPs into the feed. Studies have shown that commercial fish feeds can contain significant amounts of microplastics, which may be ingested by farmed fish.

Health Risks Associated with Microplastic Ingestion

The ingestion of microplastics by fish can have negative health consequences. Microplastics can accumulate in fish tissues and may interfere with their digestive, respiratory, and reproductive systems. Additionally, microplastics can act as vectors for harmful chemicals, such as heavy metals and pollutants, which can bioaccumulate in fish and ultimately enter the human food chain.

The Research

The researchers analyzed ten commercial fish feeds from six countries to assess MP contamination. The feeds underwent a filtration process to extract MPs, which were then characterized using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX). The abundance and types of MPs, as well as the presence of heavy metals, were determined.

Analysis of Microplastic Contamination in Fish Feeds

A recent study analyzed ten widely used commercial fish feeds across six countries on three continents to assess their microplastic content. The results were alarming. On average, these feeds contained 1,130 microplastic particles per kilogram, with fibers being the most common type (85%), followed by fragments (15%). Most of these microplastics were black in color.

The abundance of microplastics varied among the different feed samples. SP feed contained the highest concentration of microplastics (26%), while HCF had the lowest (3%). The identified polymers included polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyamide (PA), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyurethane (PU), polystyrene (PS), and polypropylene (PP).

Microscopic examination of the fibers revealed surface imperfections such as scales, cracks, and pits. Additionally, heavy metals, including nickel, copper, zinc, chromium, gold, mercury, cadmium, titanium, and lead, were detected on the surface of these fibers. Some fragments also contained niobium, a less common element.

Polymer Hazard Index (PHI)

To assess the potential harm of these microplastics, the researchers calculated the Polymer Hazard Index (PHI) for each feed. A PHI value of 400 or higher indicates a highly dangerous level. Nine out of the ten feeds analyzed fell into this category, with PHI values ranging from 400 to 394,825.

Implications for Aquaculture

The results of this study highlight the significant risk posed by microplastic contamination in aquaculture feeds. These tiny particles can be ingested by fish, potentially leading to adverse health effects. Moreover, as these fish enter the food chain, microplastics may reach human consumers.

To mitigate the risks posed by microplastic contamination, it is essential to implement effective measures to reduce their presence in aquaculture feeds. This includes:

Improving feed sourcing practices: Ensuring that fishmeal and other feed ingredients are sourced from sustainable and microplastic-free sources.
Enhancing feed processing and handling: Adopting hygienic practices to minimize the introduction of microplastics during feed production and storage.
Developing innovative feed formulations: Exploring alternative ingredients and technologies to reduce dependence on fishmeal and minimize microplastic contamination.
Strengthening regulations and standards: Implementing stricter regulations to control plastic use in aquaculture and ensure the safety of aquaculture products.

Conclusion

The study provides compelling evidence of the prevalence of microplastic contamination in commercial fish feeds. The findings underscore the urgent need for effective measures to reduce MP contamination in aquaculture. Strategies to mitigate MP contamination in feeds may include using alternative packaging materials, improved manufacturing practices, and developing MP-free feed ingredients.

By addressing this issue, we can contribute to the sustainability of aquaculture and protect the health of our fish, aquatic ecosystems, and consumers of aquaculture products.

The study was conducted as part of the Project ECOMARINE (Building a Comprehensive Mechanism for Preserving Marine Ecosystems and Life from the Negative Consequences of Climate Change and the Disposal of Plastic Debris), funded by the European Union’s Erasmus program.