Which foods add the most microplastics?

The short answer

Microplastics have been reported in many foods and drinks. Seafood gets a lot of attention, especially shellfish. But a 2026 review found that grains, fruits, and vegetables had the highest estimated daily contribution because people eat them often.

That does not mean you should avoid produce or grains. Those foods are still important. The smarter move is to reduce extra plastic contact where you can.

What the research says

A 2026 review in J Hazard Mater pulled together microplastic data from 193 papers. It compared 13 food and drink groups, including seafood, grains, produce, bottled water, tap water, milk, beer, salt, sugar, and honey.

The authors found that seafood studies are overrepresented because filter-feeding sea animals are expected to collect more particles. But when the review estimated daily intake, fruit and vegetables and grains had the highest estimated contribution.

The review also warned that test methods can change the numbers a lot. So use the rankings as a signal, not a perfect food scorecard.

What you can do

Keep eating fruits, vegetables, and grains. Wash produce well. Cut back on plastic food storage, plastic wrap, and microwaving in plastic. Store dry goods and leftovers in glass when you can.