Polyethylene Packaging as a Source of Microplastics: Current Knowledge and Future Directions on Food Contamination

Polyethylene (PE) is the most widely produced plastic globally. It is extensively used as packaging in both the food and pharmaceutical industries. Its use can result in the formation of emerging contaminants—microplastics (MPs). This review summarizes cur- rent knowledge on PE and PE-derived microplastics (PE–MPs) and highlights existing gaps. It discusses the factors influencing PE degradation, with particular emphasis on interactions with packaged contents and food products. The role of...