A Plastic-free Kitchen For Better Health
Microplastics, and more lately, nanoplastics have been the subject of many a headline. Now more and more studies are coming out about how much we are inadvertently ingesting, perhaps it’s time to sit up and take note. Why? Plastic could be adding inflammation, and oxidative stress and generally be causing other damage. And yes, this might mean accelerated ageing.
Chopping Boards
In a study from 2023, researchers found that chopping boards were a ‘substantial source of microplastics in human food’ when used for chopping. Replace plastic chopping boards with sustainable alternatives made from bamboo or wood.
Utensils
Another study, published in October 2024 found that recycled plastic was being used in many household items, including kitchen utensils. The problem arises because some of this plastic has flame-retardant chemicals in it. Yes, this was an American study, and the EU is supposedly limiting plastics with flame-retardant chemicals getting into recycled goods. So you are probably ok in the UK with these particular chemicals. But, you are still running the risk of microplastics getting into your system. Swap plastic utensils for stainless steel, wood, or silicone options. Silicone is generally considered safer than traditional plastic and can withstand high temperatures without breaking down. Be wary of spatulas, ladles, and other frequently used tools that can degrade over time and release particles into your food.
Bowls and Food Storage
Dump plastic bowls and containers in favour of glass, stainless steel, or ceramic alternatives. You may see the words ‘microwave safe’, but some researchers will argue that no plastic is safe in a microwave. Considering you have a perfectly inert alternative in glass, why use plastic at all? To take it a step further, if you use cling film or plastic wrap, switch to beeswax wraps, silicone lids, or reusable glass jars for food storage.
Cookware
Not plastic-related, maybe the handle, but it’s recommended that non-stick pans and other non-stick kitchen items should not be used, especially ones that look like they might have been made before 2015. This was the year that a certain toxic chemical was banned, perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). This does not mean that a pan you bought after that date does not contain banned substances. The manufacturers will argue that non-stick pans are now safe. Again, with relatively inert stainless steel and the safety of cooking with glass, why use them?
Cutlery and Plates
Replace plastic plates, bowls, and cutlery with reusable options like stainless steel, glass, or durable enamelware. For kids, consider bamboo or stainless-steel options instead of melamine or plastic dinnerware. Most child-friendly plastic spoons will be marked as BPA-free but going on the above, should be swapped with safer options.
Reusable Bottles and Cups
We say invest in glass, stainless steel, or ceramic and stop putting that black plastic reusable coffee cup lid to your mouth day after day.
Food Packaging
Reduce the use of pre-packaged foods that come in plastic. Buy in bulk and use your own glass containers when possible. Again, using a microwave to heat a ready meal poses the question, so for the sake of washing up another ceramic bowl, avoid putting them in the microwave, or oven for that matter.
Dishware Accessories
Replace plastic scrubbers and sponges with biodegradable or natural alternatives like coconut fibre brushes or cellulose sponges. If you use those rectangular sponges, they were recently labelled as one of the worst culprits for releasing microplastics. This study talks all about it.
Water Filters
If you got this far down the list, and you are keen, the next step to reduce plastic is to Install a high-quality water filter to remove any particles that may be present in your tap water. It is reported that there is a small amount of microplastics present in UK tap water but the picture with nano plastics is not so clear. There are plenty of inexpensive, easy fitted under-sink versions nowadays. Look for filters that state they remove particulate matter and have a dig around to see what the manufactures claim. If you are thinking that your jug-style filter is removing any plastic present in your water, you might be right, or wrong, depending on the model.
Small Changes Are OK Too
These are all pretty small and simple changes to implement. But applying at least some of the ideas, you stand a better chance of slowing down the ageing process, one microscopic particle at a time.
