I Discovered 4 Objects in My Kitchen That May Be Leaking Microplastics Into My Meals

In 2026, microplastics are in every single 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 may 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 prevented inspecting my very own kitchen in worry 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 

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 positively due for substitute.

A September 2024 study discovered that of the 14,000 identified meals contact chemical compounds current in meals packaging, 3,601 — or roughly 25% — have 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 relating to 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 might be launched from the interior 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 switch my present plastic containers with glass ones. I’ve already swapped a number of with the brand new Tupperware Voila collection — protected for the oven, microwave, freezer, dishwasher and below the broiler (with the lid off) — which the model kindly despatched me to attempt. Nonetheless, I additionally wish to replenish on smaller containers.

2. A black plastic spatula 

Like plastic containers, your plastic kitchen utensils also can launch microplastic particles into your meals, as reported by a June 2024 systematic review. 

I take advantage of wood slicing boards, steel cutlery, a silicone spatula solely for mixing room-temperature elements 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, however it’s the proper width for flipping pancakes and fried eggs. Writing this text is the wake-up name I want. 

The swap for a plastic spatula 

I am planning to switch my black plastic spatula with both a steel or wood one. I have already got a number of wooden spatulas, however none are large sufficient, so I’d go for a stainless-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

I’ve the Philips 3000 Collection air fryer, and upon researching its composition, I used to be stunned to search out that Philips air fryer components 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 exhausting, 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 product of glass and free from PFAS and PTFE, due to its crisper plate that makes use of a nano-ceramic coating, not plastic. I will likely be including this to my holiday wishlist. 

4. Tea baggage 

I discovered dozens of tea baggage in my designated tea jar and the kitchen cupboard the place I retailer further 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 might be launched into the liquid. It additionally would not matter whether or not the tea baggage include plastic that is used to heat-seal the baggage or are biodegradable, because the latter can nonetheless be created with plastic. 

Upon inspecting all my tea baggage, I discovered that almost all of them declare to be compostable, which suggests they’re constituted of plant-based supplies and do not include plastic. Nonetheless, I do have some tea baggage that lack this label, which suggests they could include microplastics.

In case 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 appropriate surroundings, like in a compost bin, whereas biodegradable merchandise might be product of both plant-based supplies or petroleum-based plastic (which may go away behind microplastics).

The swap for tea baggage which will include microplastics

As an alternative of counting on non-compostable tea baggage for a sizzling beverage, I can select loose-leaf tea as an alternative. 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, comparable to CNET’s favourite OXO Adjustable Temperature Kettle ($120). 

My ultimate ideas

Whereas there isn’t any have to panic and hurriedly exchange each single merchandise that is plastic in your kitchen, as extra research are required to substantiate well being results, there isn’t any hurt in slowly swapping out plastic kitchen objects for these which can be silicone, wooden, steel or glass, particularly should you’re heating, refrigerating, dishwashing or freezing them. In any case, a glass merchandise a day may preserve the microplastics away.