Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs as emerging water and food contaminants: review

Among the various agents employed in both human and veterinary medicine, the presence of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) represents a novel environmental concern as a source of emerging contaminants. These compounds have been detected in various environmental matrices, including wastewater, surface water and drinking water, as well as in food of animal and aquatic origin, indicating potential secondary exposure pathways for consumers. NSAID residues are typically detected by chromatographic methods; however, these need to be optimized to ensure their detection at low environmental levels, when they can still be active. It is also extremely important to use a correct method of sample preparation which accounts for the matrix. Furthermore, conventional methods do not ensure effective removal from water and wastewater. Consequently, there is a need to identify novel removal strategies that are inexpensive and easy to implement, and selective for many pharmaceuticals. The aim of the article is to evaluate the magnitude of the problem presented by NSAID residues in the environment, and to highlight secondary sources of exposure. Its findings underline the need for new regulations, monitoring plans and more extensive methods for the determination and removal of NSAIDs to ensure food safety.