Pilot study on the removal of microplastic contamination from spices resulting from the use of pepper mills with plastic grinding mechanisms

Abstract

PURPOSE: This study analyzed the possibility of using magnetic iron oxide (Fe₃O₄) nanoparticles as sorbents to capture microplastics released during pepper grinding. The synthesized and functionalized Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles were evaluated for their adsorption and separation capabilities under laboratory conditions.

APPROACH/METHODOLOGY/DESIGN: Microplastics (MP) are increasingly being identified in food products, and one potentially underestimated source of their presence in the diet is kitchen equipment. In particular, pepper mills with plastic burrs can generate MP particles as a result of mechanical abrasion.

FINDINGS: The results indicate that nanomagnetic sorbents may be a promising method for reducing exposure to microplastics from kitchen accessories. At the same time, it is necessary to further investigate the environmental and biological safety associated with the use of Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles and to develop strategies for their regeneration and immobilization.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: It was demonstrated that the application of an external magnetic field enables the effective removal of MP particles from aqueous solutions, with an average capture efficiency of approximately 40% (recovery between 30–60%).

ORIGINALITY/VALUE: FTIR qualitative analysis confirmed the presence of microplastics in samples of ground pepper from mills with plastic burrs.