Research findings from a student thesis in the Master’s Programme in Food Science and Technology (MFST), Faculty of Agricultural Technology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), were featured as part of UGM’s presentation at the 14th ASEAN Food Safety Forum 2026. Held on 2 September 2026 at BITEC Bangna in Bangkok, Thailand, the forum addressed “Microplastics in Food: Emerging Risks and Food Safety Challenges.”
These preliminary findings came from thesis research by Faris Baha, supervised by Dr. Widiastuti Setyaningsih, S.T.P., M.Sc. as primary supervisor and Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Andhika Puspito Nugroho as co-supervisor. The findings were included in “Beyond the Plate: Microplastics in Indonesia’s Food System and ASEAN Food Safety Priorities”, a presentation prepared by Dr. Prieskarinda Lestari, S.T. and Dr. Widiastuti Setyaningsih, S.T.P., M.Sc.
The study focuses on validating a method for analysing microplastics in Kappaphycus alvarezii, a seaweed with a carrageenan-rich matrix. The central question is how to break down the seaweed matrix for analysis while preserving the characteristics of the microplastic particles. The approach uses Fenton-assisted wet peroxide oxidation (WPO) to digest the matrix before particle examination and identification.
The preliminary results presented showed a matrix digestion efficiency of 97.1% following treatment at 40 °C with added Fe²⁺ for 72 hours. Tests involving the addition of polypropylene (PP) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) particles achieved an observed recovery of 100%, meaning that all particles added in those tests were recovered.
The presentation also reported changes of less than 6% in morphological parameters, while polymer identity remained recognisable using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). However, oxidation indices increased after WPO treatment, particularly for PP. These findings highlight the importance of assessing recovery, morphology, polymer identity, and chemical changes together when validating an analytical method.
The research forms part of an ongoing master’s thesis. Application to field samples and final statistical interpretation are still in progress. The figures presented therefore describe preliminary validation results under specific test conditions and do not establish levels of microplastic contamination in field-collected seaweed.
This thesis research and its dissemination support SDG 4 (Quality Education) by strengthening student research skills, and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) through the development of reliable analytical methods. Studying microplastics in seaweed also aligns with SDG 14 (Life Below Water) by expanding scientific knowledge and research capacity concerning marine resources. Sharing the findings at an ASEAN forum supports SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through international scientific knowledge exchange and the development of academic networks.
