Can food packaging contribute to microplastic exposure through food and drinks?

Short answer

Yes. Food packaging can contribute to microplastic and nanoplastic exposure. The risk depends on the packaging, food type, temperature, storage time, and how often the habit repeats.

The safest claim is exposure reduction, not certainty that one package causes harm.

Why this matters

Packaging touches food before you open it. Hot, oily, acidic, frozen, and liquid foods can make that contact more important.

Kids can also have higher exposure from repeated favorites because they often eat the same foods again and again.

What the research says

A 2026 Food Research International review found micro- and nanoplastics in liquid foods and described food-contact materials as a key source.

A 2026 Food Chemistry study found microplastics in packaged frozen seafood samples. A 2026 Journal of Hazardous Materials study identified 114 migration compounds from paper, plastic, and multilayer food-contact materials.

What to do instead

Reduce the packaging habits you repeat most. Move leftovers into glass or stainless steel. Avoid heating food in plastic packaging when a glass or porcelain dish works.