Microplastics are tiny plastic particles that have become a serious problem for pollution and human health. They’re found in air, water, food, and even cosmetics. In fact, studies suggest microplastics can be harmful and have negative health effects.
To reduce your exposure to microplastics, let’s examine the kitchen items where they may be hiding. Here are 7 places to look:
Non-stick cookware releases microplastics into food during cooking, exposing you to potentially harmful pollutants. A simple crack or fracture in your pan can release millions of microplastic particles.
Plastic food containers, like those used by Uber delivery services, can also add microplastics to your food when heated or washed. Reusable plastic takeout containers typically used by restaurants contain microplastics as well.
Microplastics are released from plastic utensils when used with hotter foods, and they settle into your body and bloodstream when ingested.
Tea bags can be a source of microplastics, especially when brewed at high temperatures. Researchers found that billions of microplastic particles are released from a single tea bag for every millimeter of water it is submerged in.
Spices packaged in plastic containers may also contain microplastics, which can contaminate your food. A recent study found microplastics in all plastic containers tested.
Plastic straws release microplastics that can be directly inhaled, and eight million metric tons of plastic are found in waterways each year.
Canned food linings, even non-BPA alternatives, contain microplastics.
But there’s hope. By making a few simple changes to your kitchen routine, you can reduce your exposure to microplastics and better protect your health:
– Use wooden or stainless steel spatulas instead of plastic ones.
– Choose glass or stainless steel food containers that skip the microplastics.
– Opt for loose-leaf teas or tea infusers instead of tea bags.
– Switch to glass or ceramic packaging for spices.
– Reuse metal or bamboo straws instead of plastic ones.
– Select fresh or frozen produce over canned foods with plastic linings.
– Upgrade to cast iron, carbon steel, or stainless steel cookware.
Source: https://www.cnet.com/health/7-places-microplastics-are-hiding-in-your-kitchen-and-easy-swaps-to-make