Microplastics have turned up in places that would have seemed impossible ten years ago: deep sea water, Arctic ice, human blood, lung tissue and, as a 2026 study confirmed, the placenta. The picture the research is putting together, while incomplete, is of widespread, low-level plastic exposure with health impacts that scientists are still working to fully understand. What is becoming clear is that some exposure occurs at home, in the kitchen, with everyday tools that most people use without a second thought. Here are four of the most common side effects.
Microplastics are also commonly found in our everyday kitchen products. Below I’ve found four potential microplastic sources lurking in my kitchen and some microplastic-free items I can replace them with. If you have these in your home, try these changes.
1. Plastic containers for food storage
A few plastic containers I found hiding in my closet.
When I went through my pantry, I found many plastic containers. Some I use only for storing dry goods, and others for storing leftovers in the fridge and reheating in the microwave. The latter claims to be refrigerator-, dishwasher- and microwave-safe, but all are showing signs of wear and tear and should definitely be replaced.
A September 2024 study found that of the 14,000 food contact chemicals present in food packaging, 3,601 — or about 25% — are found in humans. Specifically, 235 FCCs in food contact materials have been found in humans, including plastic compounds.
There are also special concerns regarding the use of microwaves and plastic containers. A June 2023 study concluded that heating a plastic container in a microwave led to a higher release of microplastics and nanoplastics into food, compared to refrigeration, room temperature storage and other uses. However, refrigeration and room temperature storage can still release up to billions of microplastics and nanoplastics from their contents within six months. Nanoplastics are much smaller than microplastics, measuring less than 1 micron, making them more harmful to the human body.
This is especially true of plastic takeout containers that don’t specify that they are heat safe, and even if they do, that claim. it may be marketing jargon. This year, it was reported that Rubbermaid is being sued by claiming that its plastic containers are microwave and freezer safe when, it is said, they still release microplastics from food. A representative for Rubbermaid did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
The August 2024 review determined that even during freezing and thawing, microplastics can be released from the interior of food containers. Another concern is that if the plastic is frozen, pieces may break the container and contaminate your food.
Although BPA-free containers, which do not contain the industrial chemical bisphenol A, may be better because you avoid potential health effects (or, again, more studies are needed), glass containers are your best bet.
Exchange of plastic food storage containers
I plan to replace my current plastic containers that I know. I have already exchanged a few for new ones Tupperware Collection Voila — oven, microwave, refrigerator, dishwasher and under broiler safe (lid off) — the brand that kindly sent me to try it. However, I also want to put in small containers.
2. A black plastic spatula
The dreaded black plastic spatula I should have replaced years ago.
Like plastic containers, your plastic kitchen utensils can also release microplastic particles into your food, as reported in a June 2024 systematic review.
I use wooden cutting boards, metal cutlery, a silicone spatula for mixing room temperature ingredients and wooden and metal cooking utensils, so I thought I was clear about plastic utensils – until I noticed one thing: a black plastic spatula. I know I should have finished it by now, but it’s the perfect range for flipping pancakes and scrambled eggs. Writing this article is the wake up call I need.
Swap with a plastic spatula
I plan to replace my black plastic spatula with a metal or wooden one. I already have many wooden spatulas, but none are wide enough, so I would choose a stainless steel spatula, like a spatula. OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Fish Turner ($18) or Victorinox 40415 Turner Slotted Wood ($54).
3. My non-stick air fryer
Guess it’s time to invest in a glass toaster.
I have a Philips 3000 Series air fryer, and when I researched its design, I was surprised to find that Philips air fryer parts are usually coated with non-stick PTFE, a type of plastic.
Philips says this is a common adherence to existing food law. However, a June 2024 study found that PTFE-lined cookware, like my air fryer, can still release microplastics and nanoplastics when the extension is scratched by hard, sharp utensils or used at high temperatures.
Replacement of air fryer covered with plastic
CNET’s pick of the best air fryer overall is Ninja Crispymade of glass and free of PFAS and PTFE, thanks to its transparent plate that uses a nano-ceramic coating, not plastic. I will add this to mine holiday wish list.
4. Tea bags
I was disappointed to learn that my favorite tea bags were made of plastic.
I found a bunch of tea bags in my chosen tea pot and kitchen cabinet where I keep extra boxes, but I was surprised to learn that they don’t just contain my favorite tea.
A February 2025 review found that tea bags are the biggest contributors to microplastic particles in hot tea when the bag and string are steeped, as more than a billion microplastics and nanoplastics can be extracted from the liquid. And it doesn’t matter if the tea bags contain plastic used to heat the bags or biodegradable, since the latter can still be created from plastic.
When I checked all my tea bags, I found that most of them said they were compostable, meaning they were made from plant-based materials and did not contain plastics. However, I have tea bags that do not have this label, which means they may contain microplastics.
If you’re wondering about the difference between compostable and biodegradable, non-profit environmental company Oceanwatch Australia says that compostable products are made from organic materials that can degrade over time in the right environment, such as manure compostwhile biodegradable products can be made from plant-based materials or fossil-based plastic (which may leave behind microplastics).
Replacement of tea bags that may contain microplastics
Instead of relying on non-fermented tea bags for a hot drink, I would opt for loose leaf tea instead. I already have it stainless steel tea infusers which I can use to climb. To make sure nothing gets into the water I use to make my tea, I would use a glass electric kettleas a CNET favorite OXO Variable Temperature Kettle ($120).
My final thoughts
Although there is no need to panic and immediately replace every single plastic item in your kitchen, as more research is needed to confirm the health effects, there is no harm in gradually replacing plastic kitchen items with those made of silicone, wood, metal or glass, especially when you heat, refrigerate, wash dishes or freeze them. After all, a glass item a day can keep microplastics away.