In 2026, microplastics are all over the place: in our air, water, household items, our food and even our our bodies. Though extra analysis is required, a 2024 rapid systematic review discovered that microplastics might hurt people’ respiratory, reproductive and digestive well being, and these microscopic plastic particles might even be linked to colon most cancers.
As a wellness editor, I have been conscious of the potential well being dangers related to microplastics, however I’ve averted analyzing my very own kitchen in concern of what I’d discover. Just lately, I confronted the music and located the next 4 potential microplastic sources hiding in my kitchen, which you may discover under. I additionally share the microplastic-free swaps I plan to make.
1. Plastic meals storage containers
Only a few of the plastic containers I discovered hiding in my cupboard.
Once I went by means of my storage container cupboard, I discovered a number of plastic containers. Some I take advantage of solely for storing dry items, whereas others are reserved for leftovers within the fridge and reheating within the microwave. The latter declare to be refrigerator-, dishwasher- and microwave-safe, however all of them present indicators of wear and tear and are undoubtedly due for alternative.
A September 2024 study discovered that of the 14,000 recognized meals contact chemical compounds current in meals packaging, 3,601 — or roughly 25% — had been detected in people. Particularly, 235 FCCs in supplies that come into contact with meals have been present in people, together with plastic compounds.
There may be additionally specific fear concerning using microwaves and plastic containers. A June 2023 study concluded that heating a plastic container within the microwave resulted within the highest launch of microplastics and nanoplastics into meals, in comparison with refrigeration, storage at room temperature and different makes use of. Nonetheless, refrigeration and room temperature storage can nonetheless launch as much as billions of microplastics and nanoplastics into their contents over the course of six months. Nanoplastics are even smaller than microplastics, measuring lower than 1 micron, making them doubtlessly extra damaging to the human physique.
That is particularly regarding with plastic takeout containers that do not specify they’re heat-safe, and even after they do, that declare might just be marketing jargon. This 12 months, it was reported that Rubbermaid is being sued for claiming that its plastic containers are microwave and freezer protected when, allegedly, they nonetheless launch microplastics into meals. A consultant for Rubbermaid didn’t instantly reply to a request for remark.
An August 2024 review decided that even throughout freezing and thawing, microplastics may be launched from the internal floor of meals containers. One other concern is that when plastic is frozen, items can break off the container and contaminate your meals.
Whereas BPA-free containers, which do not include the commercial chemical bisphenol A, could also be higher since you keep away from potential health effects (although, once more, extra research are wanted), glass containers are your greatest wager.
The swap for plastic meals storage containers
I plan to exchange my present plastic containers with glass ones. I’ve already swapped just a few with the brand new Tupperware Voila collection — protected for the oven, microwave, freezer, dishwasher and beneath the broiler (with the lid off) — which the model kindly despatched me to strive. Nonetheless, I additionally wish to top off on smaller containers.
2. A black plastic spatula
The dreaded black plastic spatula I ought to have changed ages in the past.
Like plastic containers, your plastic kitchen utensils may launch microplastic particles into your meals, as reported by a June 2024 systematic review.
I take advantage of wood chopping boards, steel cutlery, a silicone spatula solely for mixing room-temperature components and wooden and steel cooking utensils, so I believed I used to be within the clear with plastic utensils — till I noticed one factor: a black plastic spatula. I do know I ought to have gotten rid of it by now, but it surely’s the proper width for flipping pancakes and fried eggs. Writing this text is the wake-up name I would like.
The swap for a plastic spatula
I am planning to exchange my black plastic spatula with both a steel or wood one. I have already got a number of wooden spatulas, however none are broad sufficient, so I’d go for a chrome steel fish spatula, such because the OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Fish Turner ($18) or the Victorinox 40415 Turner Slotted Wood ($54).
3. My non-stick air fryer
Guess it is time to put money into a glass air fryer.
I’ve the Philips 3000 Sequence air fryer, and upon researching its composition, I used to be stunned to seek out that Philips air fryer elements are principally coated with non-stick PTFE, a kind of plastic.
Philips states that this can be a frequent coating compliant with current laws on meals contact supplies. Nonetheless, a June 2024 study discovered that PTFE-coated cookware, like my air fryer, can nonetheless launch microplastics and nanoplastics if the coating is scratched by laborious, sharp utensils or used at greater temperatures.
The swap for a plastic-coated air fryer
CNET’s decide for the best air fryer overall is the Ninja Crispi, which is made from glass and free from PFAS and PTFE, because of its crisper plate that makes use of a nano-ceramic coating, not plastic. I will probably be including this to my holiday wishlist.
4. Tea baggage
I used to be upset to be taught that my beloved tea baggage might include plastic.
I discovered dozens of tea baggage in my designated tea jar and the kitchen cupboard the place I retailer additional packing containers, however I used to be shocked to be taught they did not simply include my favourite teas.
A February 2025 review discovered that tea baggage are the best contributors of microplastic particles to sizzling tea when the bag and string are steeped, as greater than 1 billion microplastics and nanoplastics may be launched into the liquid. It additionally does not matter whether or not the tea baggage include plastic that is used to heat-seal the luggage or are biodegradable, because the latter can nonetheless be created with plastic.
Upon analyzing all my tea baggage, I discovered that the majority of them declare to be compostable, which implies they’re constructed from plant-based supplies and do not include plastic. Nonetheless, I do have some tea baggage that lack this label, which implies they could include microplastics.
Should you’re questioning in regards to the distinction between compostable and biodegradable, not-for-profit environmental firm Oceanwatch Australia says compostable merchandise are made with natural parts that may break down over time in the proper surroundings, like in a compost bin, whereas biodegradable merchandise may be made from both plant-based supplies or petroleum-based plastic (which might go away behind microplastics).
The swap for tea baggage which will include microplastics
As a substitute of counting on non-compostable tea baggage for a sizzling beverage, I can select loose-leaf tea as a substitute. I have already got stainless steel tea infusers that I can use for steeping. To make sure that nothing leaches into the water I take advantage of to brew my tea, I can use a glass electric kettle, corresponding to CNET’s favourite OXO Adjustable Temperature Kettle ($120).
My remaining ideas
Whereas there is not any have to panic and hurriedly change each single merchandise that is plastic in your kitchen, as extra research are required to verify well being results, there is not any hurt in slowly swapping out plastic kitchen objects for these which are silicone, wooden, steel or glass, particularly in case you’re heating, refrigerating, dishwashing or freezing them. In any case, a glass merchandise a day might maintain the microplastics away.
