7 places in the kitchen where microplastics are likely to 'hide'

According to CNET, microplastics are everywhere, in the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the food we eat. They accumulate in clothes, cosmetics, fabrics, and dirt, even in the kitchen.

Microplastics are often found in homes, especially in the kitchen - Photo: Kanbol Corn Containers

Studies show that microplastics can cause serious health problems. They are often found in homes, especially in the kitchen. Here are some places they may be hiding.

Non-stick cookware

A new study finds that plastic and non-stick cookware can release microplastics into food during cooking, significantly increasing the risk of exposure to these harmful pollutants.

Researchers in Australia estimate that Teflon-coated cookware can contain thousands, even millions, of microplastic particles.

A simple crack or scratch on your pan can expose you to more than two million microplastic particles.

Plastic food containers

As home delivery services become more popular, plastic containers are becoming more common, but they can release microplastics into food when heated or washed. A study found that the majority of reusable plastic containers commonly used by restaurants contain microplastics.

Plastic kitchen utensils

Studies show that, like plastic cookware, plastic kitchenware also releases microplastics into food, especially when in contact with hot food. When you consume these dishes, you also inadvertently introduce microplastics into your body and blood.

Tea bags contain many microplastics.

This may surprise you, but microplastics can also be found in tea bags. When tea is brewed, the tea bag is exposed to very high temperatures, which releases microplastics. This happens because of the polypropylene component, an important ingredient in tea bag manufacturing.

Researchers in Spain found that billions of microplastics and nanoparticles are released from a tea bag when steeped in each milliliter of water.

Spices in plastic packaging

Your jar of spices, such as paprika, could be full of microplastics depending on how it is packaged. Many spices now come in plastic packaging, which is worrying because a recent study found that all the plastic containers tested contained microplastics. This could lead to microplastic contamination of food, a problem that has grown in recent decades.

Plastic straws

Plastic straws are particularly concerning because studies show they release microplastics and nanoparticles, which can easily be inhaled directly into the body. Unfortunately, plastic straws are still very popular, with around 8 million tons of plastic ending up in waterways every year.

When straws and other plastics enter the aquatic environment, they not only pollute the water but also affect the soil and the animals in it.

Canned food box liners

BPA has been a controversial ingredient in the production of canned food linings because it can cause serious health effects.

Today, BPA-free liners like acrylic or epoxy polyester are more commonly used, but they are not completely safe either as they still contain microplastics.

Alternative kitchen items

Luckily, there are alternatives you can use. Before you put on your apron and head into the kitchen, consider adding the following items to your kitchen to reduce your exposure to microplastics.

Instead of using plastic cookware, you can try wooden or stainless steel utensils, try using glass, ceramic and steel containers.

Tea bags may contain plastic, but a safer alternative may be loose-leaf tea. To avoid the risk of contamination from spices, switch to glass or ceramic packaging.

Plastic straws are harmful to both the environment and your body. A better alternative is a metal or bamboo straw that can be washed and reused. Even paper straws can be a better alternative to plastic straws.

The plastic lining in canned foods may contain plastic, so to minimize exposure, look for foods packaged in glass. You can also choose to use fresh and frozen foods without packaging.

Products like stainless steel pans, frying pans, and cast iron skillets are all options that can reduce concerns about additional exposure to plastic.

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/7-noi-trong-nha-bep-kha-nang-co-vi-nhua-an-nap-20250103145209379.htm