Amy Oshier
It’s staggering to think about all plastic that ends up in our landfills, oceans and in our food and water. When cast-off product breaks down into tiny pieces it becomes what is called microplastic. These are categorized as anything less than 5 millimeters in length or about the size of a sesame seed- or smaller.
Much research is looking at what these microplastics do to our health and what kind of long-term impact they may have. One thing is certain, they are collecting inside our body. The EPA finds that 93% of us test positive for plastics.
In the same way there is growing awareness around microplastics and how they are infiltrating the food chain, a lot of work is being done to help us avoid ingesting them.
Consider this: we are currently putting 400 million tons of plastic waste into the global environment each year. It’s been found virtually everywhere. From the depths of the Marian Trench, to atmosphere heights. They are ingested by animals and then passed on to us. Minuscule microplastic has slipped into the food supply, even making it into baby food.
Steps have been taken through regulation to limit the problem. For example, microbeads were banned for use in wash-off cosmetic products like face scrubs. But it is hardly enough. So if you want to limit your exposure, there are some steps you can take.
1- Stop microwaving plastics. Heated liquid degrades plastic containers, unleashing BPA and phthalates. If you need to heat in a hurry, transfer your food or beverage into a glass or similar container.
2- Ditch the bottled water. A 2018 study revealed commonly packaged plastic bottles have double the amount of plastics than is found tap water. And even tap water isn’t too great. Your best bet is to get a high quality filter for your sink or fridge. Look for a carbon block or distillation filter. Reverse osmosis is the most effective treatment option.
If you still want to grab a bottle from a grocery or convenience store, water brands like Brita have stainless steel bottles.
3- Opt out of to go cups. These cups are handy, but they carry an unexpected downside. The same materials which allow them to contain hot or cold liquids can also leach into the beverage. So skip the disposable and bring a reusable.
The common theme of all the above is to ‘think’ and avoid plastics coming into contact with your drink.
