New research shows that tiny plastic particles in soil and water can increase the amount of toxic chemicals plants and human cells absorb, raising fresh concerns about food safety.

Two studies from Rutgers Health found that lettuce exposed to both micro- and nanoplastics and common pollutants like arsenic absorbed significantly higher levels of toxins than plants exposed to pollutants alone. A related study revealed that human intestinal cells also absorbed more toxins when exposed to these plastics, creating a dangerous cycle: plastics help toxins enter our food, and then help them enter our bodies.

Researchers found that nanoscale plastics increased arsenic absorption in human intestinal cells nearly sixfold, while in plants, the smallest plastic particles almost tripled arsenic uptake into edible tissues. These findings suggest that microplastic pollution isn’t just an environmental issue—it’s a growing food safety threat.

While more research is needed, experts stress the importance of reducing plastic waste, developing biodegradable alternatives, and rethinking how plastics are used in agriculture to prevent further contamination.

Reference: Demokritou P, et al. Micro- and Nanoplastics in Food and Human Absorption. NanoImpact & Microplastics. 2025.