Microplastic contamination in bottled drinking water
Abstract
The presence of microplastics (MPs) in different environmental matrices has become an increasingly discussed topic, mainly due to their detection in various environments, including bottled natural mineral water, raising concerns about potential impacts on human health and the environment. This study aimed to analyze the occurrence of MPs in commercial samples of bottled natural mineral water, considering different brands, volumes, and packaging materials. For this purpose, six samples were selected, in which MPs were quantified and characterized through microscopic analysis, being evaluated quantitatively by counting and qualitatively in terms of morphology, size, and color. The results revealed the presence of MPs in all analyzed samples, with significant variations in particle quantity among different brands and packaging types. A predominance of fragment-type particles was observed, along with variations in characteristics such as size and color. Other morphologies were also identified, and these particles may be associated with packaging materials and bottling processes. Therefore, the study confirms the presence of MPs in bottled natural mineral water and highlights the need for improved quality control, as well as further research on the impacts of these contaminants.
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