FSM 355: A Study on Nanoplastics and Pathogenic E.Coli O157: H7.

Transcript [music] This is Food Safety in a Minute from Washington State University Extension. Are you familiar with microplastics and nanoplastics? With widespread use, they are found throughout our environment, raising health concerns. Research on nanoplastics and their potential risks is ongoing. Food scientists at the University of Illinois are examining how nanoplastics influence pathogenic E. coli O157:H7 and biofilms. Biofilms are clusters of microorganisms that stick to surfaces, resist cleaning, and pose major challenges in food processing. Findings show E. coli O157:H7 exposed to nanoplastics within biofilms became more “virulent,” potentially increasing the severity of foodborne illness. This early research highlights scientists in action, working to safeguard our food supply. Use the link in our printed podcast to explore the study. I’m Susie Craig, thanks for listening. [music] Resources Nath, J., Banerjee, G., De, J. et al. Nanoplastics-mediated physiologic and genomic responses in pathogenic Escherichia coli O157:H7. Journal of Nanobiotechnology. 4/21/2025. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12951-025-03369-z#citeas. Accessed online 8/18/25.