An ongoing doctoral study at MIT World Peace University (MIT-WPU), Pune, has detected microplastics in freshwater fish commonly consumed in the city, raising concerns about plastic pollution in inland water systems and its movement into the food chain. The research is being conducted by Simran Singh, PhD Scholar, Department of Environmental Studies, MIT-WPU, under the guidance of Dr Soma Mishra. Funded through the MIT World Peace University Seed Grant, the study examines the occurrence, characteristics and possible sources of microplastics in commercially consumed freshwater fish, particularly Rohu and Tilapia.
The study began with a survey of Pune’s freshwater fish supply chain. Researchers divided the city into four geographical zones and interviewed 26 wholesalers and distributors who serve as major entry points for freshwater fish into the city. Based on the survey, the research estimates that around 37–40 tonnes of freshwater fish enter the Pune market every day. Rohu and Tilapia are among the commonly traded species. A significant share of the supply comes from aquaculture systems, while fish are also transported to Pune from Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Ratnagiri, Mumbai and Kolkata.
Laboratory analysis of the fish samples detected microplastics in the form of fibres, fragments and pellets. Based on the levels detected and local consumption patterns, the study estimates that a person consuming an average of 250 grams of freshwater fish twice a week for 50 years could potentially ingest between 93,600 and 124,800 microplastic particles.
The researchers have cautioned that the particle count cannot be directly equated with the number of plastic bottles or other plastic products. Potential health implications depend on factors including particle size, polymer composition and associated contaminants. Detailed quantitative analysis and polymer characterisation are currently underway.
“Most discussions on microplastic pollution focus on marine environments. However, freshwater ecosystems and inland cities like Pune remain relatively understudied, despite being important sources of fish consumed by local communities,” said Simran Singh, PhD Scholar, Department of Environmental Studies, MIT-WPU.
“Our objective was to understand the complete journey of fish before it reaches consumers. Instead of surveying small retail markets, we focused on wholesalers and distributors because they represent the primary entry points of freshwater fish into Pune,” she added.
The study also examines the possibility that microplastics may interact with chemical and biological contaminants in freshwater environments. The researchers said further investigation is required to understand the effects of long-term dietary exposure. The research received recognition at the National Scientist Round Table Conference (NSRTC), held at MIT-WPU from July 17 to 19, 2026, where Simran Singh received the Third Prize for her poster presentation. The study aims to establish baseline data on microplastic contamination in Pune’s freshwater food system and support further research related to plastic waste management, wastewater management, freshwater conservation and food safety.
