Microplastic pollution in livestock farming in Bangladesh: a critical review of its key findings and mitigation strategies to address public health.

Microplastic (MP) pollution in livestock farming in Bangladesh results from unplanned and poorly managed farming practices. This scenario enhances concerns about risks to the environment, animals, public health, and food safety. We synthesize findings from relevant studies obtained through PubMed, Google Scholar, and other platforms, focusing on sources of microplastics, their entry routes, and adverse impacts on animal productivity and health, alongside public health considerations and mitigation strategies. The integrated literature reveals that MPs are capable of entering animal farm systems through feed, water, infrastructure, pharmaceutical products, medical equipment, and sanitation, ultimately threatening animal health and human consumers. This review highlights the hazardous physiological, biochemical, productive, and reproductive effects of microplastics on livestock and humans caused by cellular disruption. Research revealed that around 80% of the meat, blood, and milk from cattle and swine are polluted with plastic, and 24 types of polymers were detected in human blood samples from 18 of 20 (90%) donors. Experimental data exposed that utilizing biodegradable materials could lower the MP content by 15%. To mitigate these risks, this review evaluates a range of intervention strategies together with improved waste management practices, the development of biodegradable alternatives, feed and water quality control, and public awareness campaigns. Therefore, MP pollution represents a significant environmental challenge that necessitates a One Health approach, integrating ecological, veterinary, and public health perspectives to comprehensively monitor and address MP to ensure food security and a healthy environment.