Indications That Your Consumed Food Likely Contains Microplastics Within Your System
Living with Lurking Microplastics - How Your Kitchen Habits May Harm You
Hello there! Ever wondered if those little plastic bits could be lurking in your meals and within your body? Well, guess what? Science says they could be! According to "Doctor Peter" portal, microplastics are found in all organs and systems of the human body - from the brain to the blood. Let's see how your everyday kitchen habits could be inviting these unwelcome guests.
You might think you're being efficient by using plastic cutting boards. They are easier to clean, don't absorb odors as much as wooden ones, and can be put in the dishwasher. But unbeknownst to you, when you slice your food on them, you're damaging the board's surface and introducing microplastics to your meals. The longer the board is used, the more microplastics it releases. In a study published in Environmental Science & Technology, scientists showed that people could consume up to 50g of microplastics annually just through plastic boards!
Working in an office or prefer heating food in plastic containers? That might be another microplastic source. In a study by Victoria Fullfer, a research scientist at the University of Rhode Island, a plastic food container filled only with water was heated. The result? Over 10 million microplastic particles leached into the water from the container! Remember, the "safe for microwave" labeling isn't always accurate, and it's better not to take the risk. Switch to glass containers that are safe to use in the oven or microwave for a safer option.
Are you at risk if you store food in single-use plastic bags? Research shows that even if you open these bags with scissors, a knife, or tear them, microplastics are still released, according to a 2020 study. The amount depends on the bag's density. A food specialist, Brian Cook Lee, recommends using reusable silicone bags, wax paper, or stainless steel containers instead.
Covering hot food with plastic wrap? It's softer and will release microplastic particles when it's in direct contact with hot food. Instead, use foil or reusable silicone lids.
Do you cook with plastic utensils like spoons or spatulas? Numerous studies have shown that even when used normally, these utensils can release significant amounts of microplastic particles. Especially when used on hot pans, the plastic can melt, leading to the release of even more microplastics. Consider using metal, silicone, or wooden utensils.
According to Victoria Fullfer, "Chances are you've noticed that plastic spatulas start to melt a bit at the edges when used, meaning plastic is leaching into your food." If you're using plastic tea bags, the danger extends to your beloved beverages. Harmful particles can be released by bags made of nylon and cellulose. Switch to loose leaf tea or tea marked "plastic-free" to keep those microplastics out of your body!
In light of the increasing presence of microplastics in human organs and systems, it's essential to reconsider kitchen habits that may inadvertently introduce these contaminants. Using plastic cutting boards for food preparation could lead to the ingestion of up to 50g of microplastics annually. Furthermore, heating food in plastic containers can cause the leaching of millions of microplastic particles into the food.
