Explanation –

Statements 1 and 3 are incorrect. Microplastics are not defined as natural particles; they are synthetic. Microplastics are small plastic fragments that result from the breakdown of larger plastic debris or are manufactured at a small size. Microplastics are generally defined as plastic particles less than 5 mm in diameter. Studies have shown that crops like wheat and lettuce tend to have lower concentrations of microplastics compared to the surrounding soil. Root vegetables like carrots are more likely to contain higher concentrations of microplastics compared to other crops. This is because most plastic particles accumulate in plant roots.

Statement 2 is correct. Microplastics can enter the food chain through contamination during food processing and packaging. However, a significant entry point for microplastics into the food chain is environmental contamination. Microplastics are prevalent in oceans, rivers, and soils, where they can be ingested by marine and terrestrial organisms. These organisms are then consumed by larger animals and eventually humans, integrating microplastics into the food chain.

Source: The Hindu