Date of Completion

2025

Document Type

Research Project

Degree Name

Grade 12

Keywords

plastic pollution, microplastics, Nemipterus japonicus (Bisugo), Oreochromis niloticus (Tilapia)

Abstract

Plastic pollution has become a global concern, breaking down microplastics that contaminate water, soil, and marine life. Marine life often mistakes these particles for food, leading to the accumulation of microplastics in their flesh and potential entry into the human food chain, which poses several health risks. Previous studies have confirmed that microplastic pollution is due to improper waste management and human activities, resulting in soil and water contamination. However, most of these studies focused on microplastics in water or fish digestive tracts, with limited investigation into the edible flesh of fish that humans consume. Thus, this study investigated the presence and classification of microplastics in Nemipterus japonicus (Bisugo) and Oreochromis niloticus (Tilapia) from selected public markets in Dasmariñas City, Cavite. A total of 18 fish samples from three public markets were analyzed for the presence of microplastics. Laboratory testing and FTIR spectroscopy were used to confirm and classify the types of polymers present in the fish flesh. From the 18 samples, 7 samples turned positive with microplastics, with polyethylene terephthalate (PET) being the most dominant polymer that was identified, followed by nylon, polyethylene (PE), and polypropylene (PP). Tilapia samples showed a wide range of microplastics compared to bisugo, while the Kadiwa market had the highest number of positive samples. The study highlighted the growing threat of microplastic contamination in commonly consumed fish, promoting stronger waste management practices, public awareness, and further research raising concerns for food safety and human health.

First Advisor

Myra Michelle M. Mojica, LPT, MSc

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