University of Plymouth finds microplastics can be absorbed into vegetables
Research shows them entering through the roots and accumulating in the parts we eat.
Last updated 22nd Sep 2025
The first-of-its-kind research by the University of Plymouth has shown how tiny plastic particles can enter vegetables through their roots and accumulate in the parts we eat.
A new study shows for the first time that some of the tiniest particles found in the environment can be absorbed into the edible sections of crops during the growing process.
The research used radishes to demonstrate, for the first time, that nanoplastics – some measuring as little as one millionth of a centimetre in diameter – can enter the roots, before spreading and accumulating into the edible parts of the plant.
The researchers say the findings reveal another potential pathway for humans and animals to unintentionally consume nanoplastics and other particles and fibres that are increasingly present in the environment.
It also underscores the need for further research to investigate the precise impacts it could have on environmental and human health.
The study – published in the journal Environmental Research – involved experts in plant science, environmental chemistry and plastic pollution from the University of Plymouth.
For the new research, scientists placed radishes in a hydroponic growing system, with the plant’s non-fleshy roots in contact with a solution of polystyrene nanoparticles that contained radiolabeled carbon.
After five days, they examined how far into the plant the particles had penetrated, finding that nearly 5% of those originally in the solution had been retained by the root system – amounting to millions of nanoplastics entering the crop.
Of those particles, around a quarter had made their way into the edible fleshy roots, while 10% had accumulated in the leaves.
Dr Nathaniel Clark, lecturer in Physiology at the University, said: "Plants have a layer within their roots called the Casparian strip, which should act as a form of filter against particles, many of which can be harmful.
"This is the first time a study has demonstrated nanoplastic particles could get beyond that barrier, with the potential for them to accumulate within plants and be passed on to anything that consumes them.
"There is no reason to believe this is unique to this vegetable, with the clear possibility that nanoplastics are being absorbed into various types of produce being grown all over the world."