Abstract Microplastics (MPs) are emerging toxicological contaminants capable of inducing oxidative stress, inflammation, and carrier-mediated transport of hazardous chemicals. Despite increasing evidence of MPs in processed foods, data on their presence in natural terrestrial foods and associated human exposure remain scarce in the Middle East and North Africa. This study provides the first evaluation of MP contamination and potential health risks in Egyptian honey. Twenty honey samples representing seven floral origins were collected from apiaries and commercial markets in Upper Egypt. MPs were extracted by dilution–filtration, characterized microscopically, and chemically identified using ATR-FTIR. MPs were detected in all samples, with concentrations ranging from 66.7 to 800 MPs/kg (mean: 363.3 ± 286.4 MPs/kg). Fibres dominated (83%), primarily blue and red polyethylene terephthalate (PET), followed by polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP). Supermarket honeys exhibited significantly higher MP loads and greater polymeric diversity than apiary-derived samples, suggesting additional contamination during processing and packaging. Estimated daily intake ranged from 0.0013–0.0157 particles/kg bw/day (best case) to 0.0052–0.0626 (worst case). Polymer hazard scores placed all samples at a moderate toxicological risk level (PHI: 400–750). Although honey contributes a relatively low dose to overall MP exposure, the universal presence of PET- and PE-based particles highlights a persistent, chronic exposure route with potential cumulative health implications. Routine monitoring and improved processing practices are warranted.
Ashry et al. (2026) studied this question.