Understanding the Side Effects of the Plastic Storage Bags Used for Breast Milk and the Environment: A Narrative Review
Abstract
The widespread use of plastic breastmilk storage bags raises concerns about microplastic (MP) exposure in infants, particularly during storage and heating. This review aimed to summarize evidence on MPs' release from storage bags, infant exposure pathways, potential health effects, and environmental implications. A narrative review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar for studies published between January 2015 and June 2025. Keywords related to MPs, breast milk, storage bags, and infant exposure were used. Six eligible studies were included. Plastic storage bags can release MPs, especially with heat exposure, prolonged storage, and repeated use. MPs have been detected in breastmilk and infant feces, indicating early-life exposure. Small particles may cross the gastrointestinal barrier, with experimental studies suggesting potential effects such as oxidative stress, inflammation, and microbiota disruption. However, clinical evidence in infants remains limited. In conclusion, Breastmilk storage bags may be a modifiable source of infant exposure to MPs. Although clinical impacts are not yet established, safer storage practices and further human studies are needed.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Annisa Amelia Gusvania, Corinna Faustina, Azizah Qayla Asmarani
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Qanun Medika by FK UM Surabaya is liscence under Lisensi Creative Commons Atribusi 4.0 Internasional.