The Existence, Characteristics, Sources, and Impact of Microplastics in Salt Products in Indonesia

Abstract

Salt is one of the nine essential commodities in Indonesia and is consumed daily as a crucial household food ingredient. However, the use of contaminated seawater as raw material in salt production has resulted in microplastic pollution, which is categorized as a hazardous contaminant and does not meet food safety standards. This study aims to describe the presence, characteristics, sources, and impacts of microplastics in coastal ecosystems and salt products in Indonesia through a Systematic Literature Review (SLR). Evidence shows that microplastics are consistently found in salt across different regions, with diverse shapes such as fragments, fibers, and films, in various colors and polymer types including Polypropylene (PP), Polyethylene (PE), Polyamide (PA), and Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE). The main sources of contamination are polluted seawater, conventional evaporation-based salt production, and unmanaged plastic waste. This condition raises serious concerns regarding salt quality and potential risks to human health, while also threatening marine ecosystems and the food chain. In conclusion, microplastics are recognized as significant pollutants in Indonesian salt products. Addressing this issue requires integrated strategies such as improving waste management, adopting sustainable production technologies, monitoring salt quality according to food standards, and enhancing public awareness, and support from government collaboration.