Everyday Kitchen Tools That Are Likely Exposing You to Microplastics

Microplastics are invading our bodies in alarming ways. UK research from the University of Newcastle estimates we ingest up to 11 million particles yearly, many from kitchen tools that shed under heat, scratching, or daily use. These tiny invaders enter food, drinks, and even air, with potential health links to inflammation and hormone disruption.

The solution? Identify the risks and swap for durable, non-shedding reusables made from materials such as stainless steel, glass and silicone. Reduce exposure while cutting waste and saving money.

1. Scratched Plastic Chopping Boards

   Every knife cut or scrape on a plastic chopping board releases millions of microplastic particles directly into your chopped fruits, vegetables, and proteins. A McGill University study found an average board sheds about 14 million virgin plastic particles per year, and this escalates with acidic foods like tomatoes that etch deeper grooves. Over time, your "trusty" board turns meals into a subtle pollution source.
   For a safer routine, switch to solid hardwood, bamboo, or glass boards. After chopping, store portions in mooonmoon silicone food bags to maintain freshness and organisation right in your fridge or freezer.

2. Teflon-Coated Non-Stick Pans

   When heated above moderate temperatures, the Teflon coating on non-stick pans flakes and releases airborne particles that settle into your food or cooking vapours. Consumer Reports notes that scratches from utensils expose the underlying plastic, with everyday abrasion turning pans into particle emitters. Busy cooks see this daily, inhaling or ingesting bits unnoticed.
   Turn to stainless steel, cast iron, or ceramic for reliable performance. 

3. Single-Use Tea Bags and Coffee Pods

   Many tea bags made from nylon or plastic fibres shed trillions of microplastic particles.  A 2019 study in Environmental Science & Technology detected over 11 billion particles per cup from some brands. Coffee pods with plastic linings puncture and fragment similarly, adding invisible specks to your morning ritual.
   

4. Cling Film and Ziploc Bags

   Cling film stretches and tears with handling, while Ziploc bags scratch and fragment during repeated zipping, especially with moist or fatty contents. Tests show these leach particles into food over time, a hidden hazard for leftovers and snacks.
   Mooonmoon silicone food bags provide superior airtight seals that endure cold, heat, and stretching. Freeze them flat for meal prep or microwave for reheats... endlessly reusable and fully safe.

5. Plastic Sponges and Utensils

   Synthetic foam sponges disintegrate in weeks under scrubbing, releasing fibres into sinks and prep surfaces. Research shows a single sponge can shed 1.5 million particles per wipe. Plastic utensils snap or wear similarly, scattering during use.
   

6. Microwaved Plastic Containers

   Heating plastic takeout or storage tubs causes warping and volatilisation, shedding microplastics straight into reheated meals. Fatty foods amplify release, making lunch a daily dose.
   Portion and reheat confidently in mooonmoon silicone food bags, stable to 230C with no leaching. They handle microwave, oven, or sous vide cooking with ease.

Pro-tips for a microplastic-free kitchen: Audit your kitchen drawers regularly. Toss scratched and worn items. Batch-prep in plastic-free reusables for efficiency. Compost organics to close the loop. 

Ready to detox your kitchen? Explore our stylish eco essentials and start swapping today.