In a startling revelation, a recent study has uncovered the presence of chemical additives from car tyres in leafy greens, raising concerns about potential implications for food safety. The research, conducted by the Centre for Microbiology and Environmental Systems Science at the University of Vienna and the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, sheds light on a previously overlooked pathway through which these additives enter our agricultural systems.
Pathway of Contamination
Researchers have pinpointed atmospheric deposition as the primary pathway through which tyre chemicals infiltrate agricultural environments. These additives, originating from car tyres, are transported via precipitation and subsequently accumulate on plants. Additionally, the use of treated wastewater for irrigation and sewage sludge as fertilizer further exacerbates contamination levels in leafy greens.
Potential Health Risks
Thilo Hofmann, head of the research group, underscored the potential human health risks associated with the ingestion of these contaminants. The absorption of tyre additives by plants introduces a concerning pathway for human exposure, raising questions about the long-term consequences for public health. Hofmann emphasized the urgency of further investigation to comprehensively assess these risks.
Composition of Tyre Additives
Car tyres contain a myriad of substances, including chemical additives designed to enhance durability and performance. Of particular concern are organic additives, comprising 5 percent to 15 percent of tyre composition, which contribute to the toxicity of tyre and road wear particles. Anya Sherman, the study’s lead author, highlighted the significance of understanding the composition and impact of these additives on food safety and environmental health.
Detectable Levels in Leafy Greens
The research team analyzed vegetable samples from supermarkets in Switzerland and field vegetables from Israel to evaluate the presence of tyre additives. While the levels detected were relatively low, they remained detectable in both sets of samples. These findings underscore the pervasiveness of tyre contaminants in the food supply chain and highlight the importance of ongoing monitoring and mitigation efforts.
Implications for Human Health
The concentrations of tyre additives in vegetables were found to be comparable to those of drug residues previously detected in leafy greens. While the daily intake levels were relatively low, the presence of these contaminants in food raises significant concerns. Further research is needed to elucidate the potential health impacts and environmental consequences of prolonged exposure to tyre chemicals through dietary intake.
Call for Further Research
This study builds upon earlier findings from 2023, which first demonstrated the capacity of plants to absorb tyre additives. However, the full extent of the implications for human health and the environment remains to be elucidated. Sherman emphasized the importance of ongoing research efforts to deepen our understanding of this issue and inform effective mitigation strategies.
