Microplastics have been found in our food, water and even in the kitchen utensils we use to cook and store our food, so it's no surprise that it's been estimated that Americans consume between 39,000 and 52,000 microplastic particles on a yearly basis. As for how this is affecting our health, although more research is required, studies have connected microplastics to a weakened immune system, certain types of cancer and cell damage.
Despite my awareness of microplastics, I'd put off searching through my own kitchen to find potential sources of microplastics. Once I finally did, these are the items I discovered and plan to replace.
1. Plastic food storage containers
Just a few of the plastic containers I found hiding in my cabinet. Anna Gragert/CNET
When I went through my storage container cabinet, I found several plastic containers. Some I use solely for storing dry goods, while others are reserved for leftovers in the fridge and reheating in the microwave. The latter claim to be refrigerator-, dishwasher- and microwave-safe, but they all show signs of wear and are definitely due for replacement.
A September 2024 study found that of the 14,000 known food contact chemicals present in food packaging, 3,601 -- or approximately 25% -- were detected in humans. Specifically, 235 FCCs in materials that come into contact with food have been found in humans, including plastic compounds.
There is also particular worry regarding the use of microwaves and plastic containers. A June 2023 study 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 room temperature storage can still release up to billions of microplastics and nanoplastics into their contents over the course of six months. Nanoplastics are even smaller than microplastics, measuring less than 1 micron, making them potentially more damaging to the human body.
This is especially concerning with plastic takeout containers that don't specify they're heat-safe, and even when they do, that claim might just be marketing jargon. This year, it was reported that Rubbermaid is being sued for claiming that its plastic containers are microwave and freezer safe when, allegedly, they still release microplastics into food. A representative for Rubbermaid did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
An August 2024 review determined that even during freezing and thawing, microplastics can be released from the inner surface of food containers. Another concern is that when plastic is frozen, pieces can break off the container and contaminate your food.
While BPA-free containers, which don't contain the industrial chemical bisphenol A, may be better because you avoid potential health effects (though, again, more studies are needed), glass containers are your best bet.
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