Microplastics alter farm animals' gut microbiome
Microplastics disrupt gut microbiome and fermentation in farm animals, raising concerns for animal health and food safety.
Why it matters
- Microplastics interact with and disrupt the gut microbiome in farm animals.
- They alter fermentation processes and are partially broken down.
- Farm animals' digestive systems may act as bioreactors for microplastics.
By the numbers
- International study closes a key knowledge gap about microplastics in farm animals.
The big picture
- Findings suggest microplastics don't just pass through farm animals' digestive tracts; they interact with the microbiome and are partially degraded.
- This could impact animal health and productivity, and potentially enter the human food chain.
What they're saying
- Users express concern about the ubiquity of microplastics and their potential impact on food safety.
- Some recall past use of microplastics in consumer products and question accountability.
Caveats
- Sample size and effect size not specified.
- Implications for human health and food safety are potential risks, not yet confirmed.
What’s next
- Further research needed to understand full extent of microplastics' impact.
- Potential regulatory actions to limit exposure in farm animals.