Am I eating plastic? 4 items in the kitchen that may be filling my food with microplastics
By Anna Gragert | Published: 2025-11-02 08:44:00 | Source: CNET
It is no longer uncommon to find microplastics inside the human body. In fact, it is estimated that Americans consume Between 39,000 and 52,000 microplastic particles Every year. This could be from the water we drink The food we eat And even Kitchen items We use them to make and store our meals. Although more research is needed, Studies have linked microplastics For health problems such as cell damage, a weak immune system, and certain types of cancer.
Despite knowing about microplastics for years, I had neglected to inspect my kitchen to identify plastic containers and storage items that might be contributing to my microplastic consumption. Finally, I took a look at my kitchen cabinets, and here’s what I found, along with the microplastic-free swaps I plan to make.
1. Plastic food storage containers
Just a few plastic containers I found hiding in my closet.
When I searched my storage container closet, I found several plastic containers. Some I use only to store dry goods, while others are kept for leftovers in the fridge and reheating in the microwave. The latter claims to be refrigerator, dishwasher and microwave safe, but all show signs of wear and are definitely worth replacing.
A Study September 2024 It found that of the 14,000 known food contact chemicals found in food packaging, 3,601 — or roughly 25% — have been detected in humans. Specifically, 235 FCCs have been found in materials that come into contact with food in humans, including plastic compounds.
There is also particular concern about the use of microwaves and plastic containers. A Study June 2023 The researchers concluded that heating a plastic container in the microwave resulted in the highest release of microplastics and nanoplastics into food, compared to refrigeration, storage at room temperature, and other uses. However, refrigeration and storage at room temperature can still release up to billions of microplastics and nanoplastics into their contents over the course of six months. Nanoplastics are smaller than microplastics, less than 1 micron in size, making them more harmful to the human body.
This is especially true for plastic food containers that don’t specify that they are heat safe, and even when they are, they claim to be It may just be marketing jargon. This year, it was reported Rubbermaid is being sued For claiming that its plastic containers are microwave and freezer safe, while allegedly still releasing microplastics into the food. A representative for Rubbermaid did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
that Revised August 2024 Researchers have found that even during freezing and thawing, microplastics can be released from the interior surface of food containers. Another concern is that when plastic is frozen, pieces can break off from the container and contaminate your food.
While BPA-free containers, which don’t contain the synthetic chemical bisphenol A, may be better because you’re avoiding it. Potential health effects (Although again, more studies are needed), glass containers are your best bet.
Replace plastic food storage containers
I plan to replace the current plastic containers The glass ones. I’ve already replaced a few with new ones Tupperware Voila Set – Safe for the oven, microwave, freezer, dishwasher, and under the broiler (with the lid) – which is what the brand sent me to try. However, I also want to store smaller containers.
2. Black plastic spoon
The dreaded black plastic spoon that I should have replaced a long time ago.
Like plastic containers, plastic kitchen utensils can also release microplastic particles into your food, according to A June 2024 Systematic review.
I only use wooden cutting boards, metal cutlery, a silicone spatula for mixing room-temperature ingredients, and wooden and metal cooking utensils, so I thought I was safe from plastic utensils — until I noticed one thing: a black plastic spatula. I know I should have gotten rid of it by now, but it’s the perfect presentation for flipping pancakes and scrambled eggs. Writing this article is the wake-up call I need.
Replace plastic spoon
I plan to replace my black plastic spoon with a metal or wooden one. I already have several wooden spoons, but none of them are wide enough, so I might choose a stainless steel fish spoon, like this one. OXO Good Grip Stainless Steel Fish Fryer ($18) or Victorinox 40415 Slotted Wood Turner ($54).
3. Non-stick air fryer
I think it’s time to invest in a glass air fryer.
I have a Philips 3000 series air fryer, and when researching its construction, I was surprised to find that the Philips air fryer parts are mostly coated with non-stick PTFE, a type of plastic.
Phillips says This is a popular coating that is compliant with current legislation relating to food contact materials. However, A Study June 2024 I found that PTFE-coated cookware, such as an air fryer, can still release microplastics and nanoplastics if the coating is scratched with hard, sharp tools or used at higher temperatures.
Replace the plastic covered air fryer
CNET’s pick for Best air fryer overall he Ninja Crispywhich is made of glass and free of PFAS and PTFE, thanks to its crunchy plate that uses a nano-ceramic coating, not plastic. I will add this to my Holiday wish list.
4. Tea bags
I was disappointed to learn that my favorite tea bags could contain plastic.
I found dozens of tea bags in my personalized tea jar and in the kitchen cabinet where I store extra boxes, but I was shocked to learn that they didn’t just contain my favorite teas.
A Revised February 2025 She found that tea bags are the largest contributors of microplastics to hot tea when the bag and string are steeped, as more than a billion microplastics and nanoplastics can be released into the liquid. It also doesn’t matter whether the tea bags contain plastic used to heat seal the bags or are biodegradable, as the latter can still be made from plastic.
Upon examining all my tea bags, I found that most of them claim to be biodegradable, meaning they are made from plant materials and contain no plastic. However, I have some tea bags that do not have this label, which means they may contain microplastics.
If you’re wondering what the difference is between biodegradable and compostable eco-corporations, it is a non-profit eco-corporation says Oceanwatch Australia Biodegradable products are made from organic elements that can decompose over time in the right environment, such as… Compost binwhile biodegradable products can be made from either plant materials or petroleum-derived plastic (which can leave behind microplastics).
Replace tea bags that may contain microplastics
Instead of relying on non-biodegradable tea bags for a hot drink, I can opt for loose leaf tea instead. I already have it Stainless steel tea strainer Which I can use for soaking. To make sure nothing gets into the water I use to make tea, I use a Glass electric kettlesuch as CNET’s favorites OXO Adjustable Temperature Kettle ($120).
My final thoughts
Although there is no need to panic and replace every plastic item in your kitchen in a hurry, as more studies are needed to confirm the health effects, there is no harm in slowly replacing plastic kitchen utensils with those made of silicone, wood, metal or glass, especially if you are heating, cooling, washing or freezing them. After all, a glass a day can keep plastic particles away.
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