Evaluating microplastic emission from takeaway containers: A Micro-Raman approach across diverse exposure scenarios

Based on inconsistencies observed in literature regarding microplastic levels released by takeaway plastic containers, this study investigates the release from takeaway containers composed of polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). To simulate real-world conditions, experiments were conducted using Milli-Q water at room temperature, 100 °C, and at pH 4.5. Containers were subjected to 20-min exposure with agitation, and microplastics were quantified via optical microscopy, with micro-Raman spectroscopy to confirm the particle polymeric nature. The results indicate that PET and PS containers released microplastic in varying quantities: 9 and 1 at room temperature, 7 and 3 in acidified water, and 17 and 30 at 100 °C, respectively. The particle sizes ranged between 13 and 32 μm. Notably, no microplastics were detected from PP containers under any tested conditions. This study underscores the significant release of microplastics from PET and PS containers, particularly at elevated temperatures, suggesting that PP may represent a safer alternative.