5. Plastic chopping boards could transfer microplastics to food
Chopping boards alone could expose humans to up to 79.4 million polypropylene microplastics – a type of plastic polymer – each year according to a study by the American Chemical Society (ACS).
This means that using a plastic chopping board could potentially increase the transfer of microplastics to food.
Tempered glass chopping boards are an affordable alternative that is easy to clean and typically free of microplastics.
“A chemical found in hard, clear plastic used to make everything from baby bottles to food packaging, may increase the risk of erectile dysfunction and other sexual problems.” – Health.com
4. Microwavable food containers can release microplastics when heated
Plastic products labelled as ‘microwave safe’ can release significant amounts of microplastics into food when heated.
A 2023 study by researchers at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln found up to 4 million microplastics per square centimetre in certain ‘microwave safe’ plastic-packaged baby foods.
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Under the microscope, these particles were found to kill up to 75 per cent of cultured kidney cells, raising concerns about potential impacts on human health.
3. How to keep microplastics out of ice cubes
Freezing plastic can cause microplastics to leach into water, similar to the process seen with heated plastics, according to an associate professor interviewed by HealthCentral.
In recent years, a more sustainable option has become popular: stainless steel ice cube trays. These not only enhance the aesthetic of drinks but get colder faster, meaning they freeze more quickly.
“Researchers have discovered microplastics in men’s penises, raising concerns about their effect on erectile dysfunction and their role in the decline of male fertility rates.” – THE COOL DOWN, JUNE 30, 2024
2. Why paper cups aren’t actually a sustainable choice
While paper cups are supposed to be more environmentally friendly, they surprisingly contribute to plastic pollution. These cups require a layer of sealant, typically consisting of up to 10 per cent high-density polyethylene (HDPE), to prevent liquid leakage.
Recycling paper cups is problematic due to the need for separating the HDPE layer from the paper, which complicates the process.
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Using paper cups for hot drinks can lead to the release of various chemicals, including fluoride, chloride, sulfate and nitrate.
1. Tea bags could introduce microplastics to your morning brew
Surprisingly, many tea bags are made with unsustainable polypropylene plastic, and even paper tea bags can contain traces of plastic in the sealant …