Isolation, characterization, and quantification of microplastics and heavy metals from meconium, breast milk, and formula milk

Abstract

Heavy metals (HMs) and microplastics (MPs) have become ubiquitous environmental pollutants that have detrimental effects on the health of mothers and newborns. In order to further comprehend early-life exposure pathways, this study aimed to identify, characterize, and quantify MPs and HMs in human breast milk and neonatal feces. Neonatal samples were collected and processed utilizing filtration, density separation, and standardized digesting methods designed for biological matrices. Raman spectroscopy was implemented to identify and characterize microplastics according to their shape, size distribution, and polymer type. Through the use of Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS), heavy metals that include lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), and arsenic (As) were identified. The findings demonstrated that a variety of microplastic particles, notably fibers and pieces, were present. These particles ranged from 0.01 mm to 0.22 mm in breast milk and from 0.1 mm to 1.48 mm in neonatal feces, reflecting maternal transfer and early postnatal exposure. Polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) were discovered to be the most common polymers. Although heavy metal concentrations fluctuated between samples, with higher quantities frequently encountered in neonatal feces, suggesting potential accumulation or additional environmental inputs. These outcomes showcase the early-life existence of toxic metals and microplastics in maternal and neonatal biological systems and emphasize the need for increased monitoring, exposure-reduction measures, and additional research into possible health effects during crucial developmental stages.