How You Can Protect Your Health and The Planet
Microplastics are tiny plastic pieces that form when larger items, such as plastic bags, bottles, or containers, break down. They can also come from synthetic fabrics, cleaning products, and the air. These tiny particles are everywhere—in our oceans, rivers, soil, and even the food and water we consume.
According to a National Library of Medicine report, microplastics and nanoplastics pose serious risks to human health, causing inflammation, oxidative stress, and hormonal disruptions. Toxic additives like BPA can leach from plastics, impacting metabolism, gut health, and future generations.
To our health: Studies show microplastics can enter our blood, lungs, and organs. Scientists worry they could cause inflammation, disrupt hormones, or carry toxic chemicals into our bodies over time.
To the environment: Microplastics harm wildlife. Fish, birds, and other animals often mistake them for food, leading to starvation or toxic buildup in their systems. This can ultimately impact humans who consume these animals higher up in the food chain.
How Can We Lessen the Risk of Consuming Microplastics?
In reality, avoiding microplastics is nearly impossible, but you can take simple measures—most of them in your kitchen—to reduce exposure:
- Avoid heating food in plastic.
When food is heated in plastic containers, the heat can cause the plastic to break down and release microplastics into your food. Instead, use glass or ceramic dishes. If you need to cover food, opt for a microwave-safe plate or beeswax wrap instead of plastic wrap. - Switch to glass or stainless steel for storage.
Plastic food containers can release microplastics, especially when scratched or exposed to heat. Instead, store leftovers, spices, or pantry items in glass jars or stainless steel containers. - Choose fresh or minimally packaged food.
A significant source of these comes from plastic packaging. Whenever possible, buy fresh produce or items packaged in paper or glass. - Filter your water.
Both tap and bottled water can contain microplastics. Install a water filter designed to catch small particles, or use a filtration pitcher that has been tested to reduce microplastics. The BBC reports that a new study has determined that the average bottled water contains hundreds of thousands of nanoplastics. - Avoid single-use kitchen items.
Replace plastic straws, utensils, and disposable plates with reusable alternatives made from stainless steel, bamboo, or glass. - Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly.
Microplastics from the environment can settle on produce. Rinsing fruits and vegetables under running water helps remove surface contamination.
Other Ways to Reduce Microplastics in Daily Life
- Choose natural fibers: Opt for clothing made from cotton, wool, or linen instead of synthetic materials like polyester or nylon, which release these toxins during washing.
- Recycle and reduce plastic waste: The less plastic you use, the fewer microplastics will enter the environment.
- Be mindful of cleaning products: Some sponges or cleaning tools may contain these particles. Use natural sponges or brushes instead.
Adopting these small yet impactful changes, especially in your kitchen, can reduce exposure while protecting your health and the environment.
