Microplastic Contamination in Farmed Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss): First Evidence from Bulgarian Freshwater Aquaculture

Microplastic (MP) contamination is increasingly recognized as a global environmental problem affecting aquatic ecosystems, food quality, and animal and human health. Farmed fish represent an important and increasing component of the human diet. Therefore, understanding potential human exposure to MPs is essential for ensuring food safety. In this study, we present the first assessment in Bulgaria of MP contamination in the muscle tissue of rainbow trout [Oncorhynchus mykiss (Walbaum, 1792)] reared in freshwater aquaculture systems. Edible tissues were analyzed using Laser Direct Infrared (LDIR) imaging spectroscopy, a highly sensitive method enabling rapid detection and accurate identification of polymer types present in samples. MPs were detected in all examined specimens, demonstrating that these particles are bioavailable and capable of accumulating in fish muscle tissues commonly consumed by humans. Moreover, the presence of multiple polymer types suggests diverse contamination sources within aquaculture environments. Although the present findings do not allow direct conclusions about human health risks, they indicate potential risks of trophic transfer and highlight the need for improved monitoring strategies and management practices in farmed fish production. Overall, this study provides novel data on MP exposure in aquaculture species and emphasizes the preventive importance of assessing plastic pollution in fish intended for human consumption.