Az extrudált polisztirol alapú csomagolóanyagok kockázati tényezői az élelmiszer-biztonság és a környezet szempontjából = The risks of extruded polystyrene-based packaging materials for food safety and the environment

Répás, Zoltán (2025) Az extrudált polisztirol alapú csomagolóanyagok kockázati tényezői az élelmiszer-biztonság és a környezet szempontjából = The risks of extruded polystyrene-based packaging materials for food safety and the environment. SCIENTIA ET SECURITAS, 6 (1-2). pp. 183-190. ISSN 3057-9759

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Abstract

Az extrudált polisztirol (XPS) alapú csomagolóanyagokat az élelmiszeripar széleskörűen alkalmazza. A fizikai aprózódás révén mikroműanyag keletkezik, amely bejuthat az élő szervezetekbe. A tanulmány célja az XPS-ből készült csomagolóanyagok élelmiszer-biztonsági és környezeti kockázatainak értékelése, valamint az ezekkel kapcsolatos potenciális veszélyek azonosítása kvalitatív belső dokumentumelemzés módszerével. Az elemzés számos kockázati tényezőt azonosított, amelyek egészségkárosító hatásúak. A kioldódó anyagok megjelenhetnek a zsigeri szervekben és az agyban. A gyártókat eltérő törvénykezés szabályozza. Következésképpen az XPS-alapú élelmiszer-csomagolóanyagok élelmiszer-biztonsági és környezetvédelmi kockázatokat hordoznak magukban. | This study presents a detailed overview of the use of extruded polystyrene (XPS) packaging materials, which is a widely used base and packaging material, extensively utilized by the food industry. Their popularity stems from several advantageous properties, including low weight, mechanical strength, cost efficiency, and outstanding thermal insulation. These attributes make XPS particularly suitable for single use food containers, trays, and transport packaging, where functionality and low production cost are crucial. However, despite these benefits, XPS is a biologically nondegradable plastic, and its accumulation in waste contributes to long-term environmental stress. Over time, XPS breaks down into microplastics – particles smaller than 5 micrometers – that are now commonly found in soil, water, and sewage sludge. These microplastics are easily dispersed in the environment and can enter living organisms, where they may accumulate and exert harmful effects. A particularly concerning aspect is the generation of nanoplastics, particles smaller than 50 nanometers. Due to their minuscule size, they are capable of penetrating biological membranes, entering the bloodstream, and even crossing the blood-brain barrier. This raises serious health concerns, as such particles may accumulate in tissues, interfere with cellular functions, disrupt metabolic processes, and potentially cause long-term physiological damage. Chemical risks are also associated with the use of XPS in food packaging. During manufacturing, various chemicals such as styrene and bisphenol A (BPA) are used, which can migrate into food products – especially when in contact with fatty or oily substances. Styrene is rapidly absorbed by the human body and, although it does not accumulate, it may still pose health risks. BPA, on the other hand, is a well-known endocrine disruptor and is associated with increased risk of hormonal imbalance and cancer. These risks highlight the importance of monitoring chemical migration from packaging into food. The environmental impact of XPS is further exacerbated by its presence in marine ecosystems. Studies of plastic debris washed up on shores have identified elements such as iron, titanium, and bromine in XPS samples, originating from manufacturing residues or environmental contamination. Experiments with fish have shown that polystyrene microplastics can cross the blood-brain barrier, resulting in behavioral changes and structural abnormalities. In human tissues, similar particles may interfere with cellular metabolism, affect platelet function, and accumulate in organs, potentially leading to chronic health conditions. In conclusion, while XPS packaging materials offer clear advantages in terms of practicality and cost, their use raises significant concerns regarding food safety and environmental sustainability. Addressing these issues is essential for protecting both of human health and the environment.

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