Microplastics Are Everywhere—Replace These Kitchen Tools

The consumption of microplastics is a worrying development that seems impossible to escape, with studies seemingly constantly emerging about the increased risk of plastics. One of the best things I’ve learned when I’m feeling overwhelmed is to reach out to experts and ask them for advice.

It’s important to note that we don’t necessarily need to overhaul every kitchen product. We asked seven different scientists what plastic items they would most like to replace in their kitchens to avoid microplastics in food so we have an accessible starting point. What surprised me is that most of them were passionate about replacing various things, such as plastic cutting boards wooden boards or plastic spatula Stainless steel spatula. You don’t have to replace all of these things; Choose the item that you think best fits your cooking routine. I will do that!

Replace: Non-stick pans

Grab: Cast iron or carbon steel pans

Lodge 10.25-inch cast iron skillet

Teflon, the nonstick coating used in many pans, is a form of plastic along with PFAs. “Nonstick pans are coated with fluorinated polymers, typically called perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFA chemicals. These chemicals are known to be toxic and leach into your food when cooking, especially when used with other cookware – metal forks or spatulas, for example – that scrape the coating,” he says Anna Marie LaChanceLecturer in chemical engineering at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

She recommends a cast iron skillet if you’re okay with the heavier weight. “They’re naturally non-stick, can go straight into the oven, and are easier to maintain than you think!” This Lodge pan is one of the best on the market, according to EatingWell testing.

Merten & Storck 10-inch black carbon steel skillet

If you want something similar, a carbon steel pan offers the same heat and durability as cast iron but is lighter. Merten & Storck’s option is a good place to start because it’s not too expensive and offers just the right amount of space for cooking tasks, whether you’re searing salmon or sautéing vegetables.

Replace: microfiber cloths

Grab: Cotton towels

Homaxy cotton waffle tea towel set

Towels are products that we don’t often think about replacing, but they can make a big difference. Plus, cotton sets are inexpensive – this one is only $10. “Microfiber towels are made from synthetic materials such as polyester and polyamide, which are derived from plastic. The friction from cleaning and washing microfiber towels creates significant amounts of microplastics,” he says Megan Meyerwho has a Ph.D. owns. in microbiology and immunology and works as a science communication consultant.

“That is appreciated Textiles cause around 35% of microplastic pollution in the world’s oceans, so switching to natural fibers like cotton can help reduce the production of microplastics. Cotton has the added benefit of being super absorbent and durable, making it a great option for kitchen towels.”

Replace: plastic cutting boards

Grab: Wooden Cutting Boards

John Boos Chop-N-Slice maple wood cutting board

Two scientists specifically pointed out plastic cutting boards. “It has been shown that up to 50 grams of plastic is lost each year when cutting on plastic cutting boards,” he says Jennifer BrandonEnvironmental scientist and sustainability consultant Wild Beacon Consulting.

Others agree: Saee Pansarea former food research and development scientist with a degree in food engineering and technology, is urging people to swap out their plastic versions too. “Knives not only cut through our food but also through the plastic cutting board, releasing microplastics into the food. Cutting is one of the most aggressive activities we perform with our cooking utensils and one should be aware of the impact on the non-food compounds released in the food,” says Pansare.

The best way is to replace the board with a durable wooden cutting board, and I love John Boos’ models. This board is one of our tried and tested favorites because it’s durable and generously sized. It may cost more, but the double-sided design ensures this cutting board will last for years.

Replace: Coffee pod based coffee machines

Grab: Standard Coffee Makers

Cuisinart 14-cup programmable drip coffee maker

A forgotten evildoer that Dr. What Brandon wants to avoid are coffee machines with plastic pods. “You pour boiling water through the plastic straight into the cup. You’re inevitably exposed to so much microplastic, and then there are the cups themselves,” she says, adding that they’re also not as recyclable as we think. For this reason, Dr. Brandon considers purchasing another coffee maker that skips this step completely to avoid additional unnecessary stress. This Cuisinart model is one of our favorites—it performs well and brews flavorful cups no matter how much you make.

Replace: plastic spatula

Grab: Silicone or stainless steel spatula

OXO stainless steel spatula

“I would replace plastic spatulas. As a scientist who studies microplastic pollution, I have seen how plastic can break down and release tiny particles or leach chemicals,” he says Dr. Lisa ErdleEcotoxicologist, microplastics expert and director of science and innovation at 5 Gyres Institute. “Spatulas are often used at high temperatures, which increases the risk of leaching and the release of microplastics. I swapped my spatulas for silicone or stainless steel alternatives – they are safer and more durable when cooking.” This OXO spatula is a simple pick made entirely of stainless steel with a classic reversible design. Use it to flip anything like salmon, burgers, fried eggs and more.

GIR silicone spatula set

If you prefer the simplicity of silicone – a more durable and long-lasting option – this set is an excellent choice. I love my GIR utensils because they are durable, heat resistant and easy to wash. This set has the shapes and sizes you need for everyday cooking, including a spatula, spatula and spoon.

Replace: Styrofoam cup

Grab: Reusable cups

Yeti Rambler 20 ounce mug

To put it simply, almost everything is better than Styrofoam. “I would replace all Styrofoam cups,” he says Bryan Quoc LeFounder and senior food consultant Mendocino Food Advisory. “The problem with Styrofoam is that it is very fragile and breaks down easily into microplastic particles. It is also difficult to clean, lightweight and difficult to recycle, so it often ends up in landfill or the ocean. Styrofoam’s monomer, known as styrene, is considered potentially carcinogenic. So there are few, if any, reasons to use a Styrofoam cup to be reused.”

Quoc Le says that there are many alternatives that can be used to replace these cups. If I ever use a Styrofoam cup, it’s usually for coffee. This Yeti mug is my favorite reusable choice – it keeps my coffee hot, drinkable, and easy to clean. The plastic lid is a moot point for me. I don’t always use it, but when I do I remind myself that it’s a better cup and you’ll be hard-pressed to find one that doesn’t have a plastic lid.