Invisible Threats on the Plate: Detecting Emerging Contaminants in Food

Abstract

Emerging food contaminants have gained significant attention due to their potential adverse effects on human health and the environment. This paper focuses on three critical categories of emerging contaminants: microplastics, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and pharmaceutical residues. Microplastics are ubiquitous in the environment and can enter the food chain, posing risks to aquatic organisms and potentially human consumers. PFAS, often referred to as “forever chemicals,” are persistent in the environment and have been linked to various health issues, leading to their classification as emerging pollutants. Additionally, pharmaceutical residues, stemming from agricultural runoff and wastewater discharge, are increasingly found in food matrices, raising concerns about their impact on food safety. This review aims to synthesize current knowledge on the occurrence, pathways, impacts, and detection techniques for these contaminants, highlighting the urgent need for effective risk management strategies to mitigate their effects on food systems and public health.