Are microplastic-positive mussels still safe to eat?

Mussels, locally known as tahong, have tested positive for microplastics, a follow-up study to a 2016 research has shown.

In an episode of AHA!,  Dr. J.I. Janario, a chemist at the De La Salle University, confirmed that a study — which was conducted with the cooperation of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) — found microplastics from sample mussels taken from wet markets in Metro Manila.

"Kumuha kami ng mga tahong sa iba't ibang lugar sa Metro Manila sa mga palengke. Tapos dinala namin yung mga yun dito sa laboratory namin kung saan tinunaw namin yung laman ng tahong," he explained.

After melting the mussels through acid, the contents were filtered and whatever remains were checked and brought back to the DOST to be identified.

Microplastics are tiny pieces of plastic that are less than 5 millimeters in size. There are two types: primary and secondary.

Primary microplastics are the ones created to be mixed into make up, toothpaste, and shampoo, among other products.

Secondary microplastics are plastics that broke down from larger pieces due to elements. It is possible that these end up in bodies of water and are eaten by sea creatures.

"Di siya nabubulok so matagal na panahon bago ito matunaw. So nagpipira-piraso ito...hanggang maging butil siya," Janario said.

The microplastics found in the mussels were identified as polyethelene, usually found in plastic water bottles and textiles and fabrics.

Does this mean mussels are no longer edible?

Not necessarily, Janario said.

No studies have concluded that ingesting microplastics are toxic for the body.

"Wala pang konklusibong pagaaral na magsasabing nakaksama sa kalusuban ang microplastics," he said. — Jessica Bartolome/LA, GMA News