The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has been requested by the European Parliament to deliver a scientific opinion on the potential health risks posed by microplastics in food, water, and air. The agency expects to publish scientific advice on the subject by the end of 2027.

EFSA experts will review the latest evidence on microplastics, including how microplastics enter and affect the human body, how they are transferred into food, and the methods to assess related risks. EFSA will also provide updated dietary exposure estimates based on new data from the literature.

The scientific advice produced by EFSA will help support risk management and decision-making on how to best protect consumers from exposure to microplastics through food.

EFSA’s Previous Research on Microplastics in Food

The most recent publication on microplastics from EFSA is a literature review on micro- and nanoplastics released from food contact materials (FCMs). The agency determined that, while there is clear evidence of microplastic release from FCMs, the actual quantities are likely lower than many studies suggest. Nanoplastics data remain insufficient, and current evidence does not support reliable exposure estimates. The report identifies data gaps and makes recommendations on future research needs.

In 2021, EFSA held its 25^th Scientific Colloquium, bringing together experts to review micro- and nanoplastics in food. The event highlighted major knowledge gaps and stressed the need for harmonized methods and coordinated international research.

Finally, a 2016 scientific statement on micro- and nanoplastics in food (especially seafood) highlighted major knowledge gaps and stressed the lack of standardized methods to assess health risks.