Plastic pollution in food packaging systems: impact on human health, socioeconomic considerations and regulatory framework.
Hana Najahi, Mohamed Banni, Mantoura Nakad, Rami Abboud, Jean Claude Assaf, Luigi Operato, Malika Belhassen, Leonardo Gomes, Wael Hamd
Plastic pollution is not only an environmental threat but also a growing concern for human health and society. Globally, over 50% of plastic waste ends up in landfills and 20% is mismanaged, while only 9% is recycled. In food packaging, the accumulation of plastic waste presents an urgent challenge that demands sustainable solutions.
A recent review by our colleagues from the MAGNO project takes a deep dive into the effects of plastic pollution, particularly microplastics, on human health. The study examines how these particles enter our bodies—through ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contact—potentially causing oxidative stress, inflammation, and cellular dysfunction. It also highlights broader socioeconomic and sociocultural consequences, such as economic losses, declining quality of life, and the disruption of traditional practices. Lastly, the review stresses the need for stronger regulations and sustainable practices to mitigate these risks and protect both public health and the environment.
Read the full review to learn more about how plastic in food packaging affects us all.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2772416625000798?via%3Dihub
