Microplastics have become a growing concern in recent years, and scientists are now finding them in everyday kitchen items and foods. According to Amy Lusher, a senior researcher at the Norwegian Institute for Water Research, microplastics can be released into food during cooking and preparation.
Lusher’s research has shown that even household items like dishwashing sponges and blenders can shed microplastic particles. A 2024 study found that plastic cookware contributes thousands of microplastic particles to homemade food each year. The researchers also discovered that heating cookware or using sharp utensils can exacerbate microplastic shedding.
The widespread presence of microplastics in kitchenware and foods has significant implications for human health. In fact, one estimate suggests that every American consumes between 39,000 and 52,000 microplastic particles each year. As awareness about microplastics continues to grow, it’s essential to take steps to reduce their presence in our daily lives.
Source: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/how-microplastics-get-into-our-food