# Occurrence and Characteristics of Microplastics in Raw Milk from Smallholder Dairy Farms in Northeastern Thailand

## TL;DR

This study found microplastics in raw milk from smallholder dairy farms in Thailand, raising concerns about food safety and public health.

## Contribution

The study is the first to report microplastic contamination in raw milk from smallholder dairy farms in Thailand.

## Key findings

- Microplastics were detected in both hand-milked and bulk tank milk samples.
- Fiber-shaped particles were most common, with Polydimethylsiloxane being the predominant polymer.
- Improving farm hygiene and reducing plastic use could lower contamination risks.

## Abstract

Plastic waste can gradually break down into very small particles known as microplastics, which may enter food products consumed by humans. This study examined the occurrence of microplastics in raw milk from smallholder dairy farms in Maha Sarakham Province, northeastern Thailand. Samples of hand-milked raw milk and bulk tank milk were collected from ten farms and analyzed for microplastic contamination. Microplastics were detected in both types of milk samples, with fiber-shaped particles being the most common form. Most particles were yellow in color, suggesting potential sources related to synthetic materials used during farm activities or milk handling. The predominant polymers identified were Polydimethylsiloxane, followed by a semi-synthetic composite of Elastane and Rayon. These findings indicate that microplastics can be present in raw milk produced by smallholder dairy farms, raising concerns for food safety and public health. From a One Health perspective, improving farm hygiene practices, reducing contact with plastic materials, and strengthening management during milking and milk storage may help lower the risk of microplastic contamination in dairy products.

Microplastic contamination in food systems has emerged as a growing concern for food safety and public health. The presence of microplastics in raw milk may represent a potential exposure pathway for both animals and humans. This study investigated the occurrence and characteristics of microplastics in raw milk collected from smallholder dairy farms in Northeastern Thailand. Hand-milked raw milk and bulk tank milk samples were obtained from ten farms and analyzed for microplastic contamination. Suspected microplastic particles were identified and quantified using stereomicroscopy and characterized according to their shape, color, and size, while polymer composition was confirmed by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy. Microplastics were detected in both hand-milked and bulk tank milk samples, with fiber-shaped particles being the most frequently observed. The majority of detected particles were 0.05–0.15 mm in size and predominantly yellow in color. Polymer analysis revealed that Polydimethylsiloxane, followed by a semi-synthetic composite of Elastane and Rayon. These findings demonstrate that microplastics can be present in raw milk produced by smallholder dairy farms, highlighting the need for improved farm management and milk-handling practices to reduce contamination risks. From a One Health perspective, reducing plastic use and enhancing hygiene during milking and milk storage may help protect animal health, food safety, and consumer well-being.