Microplastics in over 75% of pet food, study finds
Researchers say certain brands and kinds of cat and dog food have more microplastics than others.
Coverage by Political Leaning
See how different sides of the spectrum reported this story
Notable Quotes
"Based on current information, the FSA considers it unlikely that the presence of microplastics in food or pet food would cause harm, though this will be kept under review as new evidence becomes available."
— Dr James Cooper , Academic
"Our results are a reminder that our pets are exposed to the same chemical pollutants as ourselves."
— Tamara Galloway , Academic
"Pets may be inadvertently spreading plastic pollution through their food and faeces, affecting wildlife and the wider environment."
— Fiona Mathews , Academic
"It is likely there is a risk of exposure to pets through the use of plastic bowls, water from plastic bottles, plastic toys and food from plastic packaging to name a few."
— Alison Thomas , Academic
Key People
Alison Thomas is the head of veterinary standards at Blue Cross.
Dr James Cooper is associated with the Food Standards Agency and provides insight on microplastics in food.
Fiona Mathews is a Professor of Environmental Biology at the University of Sussex.
Tamara Galloway is a Professor of Ecotoxicology at the University of Exeter.
Locations
All Coverage
Researchers say certain brands and kinds of cat and dog food have more microplastics than others.
Similar Stories
Related coverage based on topic and tags
'It was either feed my animals or feed myself'
Pet food banks says donations of food have dipped over the summer.
August 18, 2026 at 05:04 AMParents 'watering down baby milk' over high costs
Moorside Baby Bank say parents are turning to unsafe practices over the rising cost of essentials.
August 16, 2026 at 06:03 AMCourt upholds US rule designating PFAS chemicals as 'hazardous' - Reuters
Court upholds US rule designating PFAS chemicals as 'hazardous' Reuters
August 18, 2026 at 09:34 PMFrom coffee to hotpot, brands race to grab a bite of China's growing burger market - Reuters
From coffee to hotpot, brands race to grab a bite of China's growing burger market Reuters
August 17, 2026 at 12:11 AMTech Life
Vapour trails from aircraft contribute to warming in the atmosphere.
August 18, 2026 at 08:00 PMEXCLUSIVE: Emails reveal Indian carmakers' fuel contamination worries before public retreat - Reuters
EXCLUSIVE: Emails reveal Indian carmakers' fuel contamination worries before public retreat Reuters
August 13, 2026 at 05:51 AM