Latest news with #microplastics
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Expert mom shares 4 tips to protect against emerging threat to children's health: 'There is certainly enough evidence to take action'
An under-discussed but extremely dangerous problem of modern life is the scourge of microplastics. The word itself is self-explanatory in describing what microplastics are, but what makes them insidious is just how "micro" they are. Formally defined as being less than 5 millimeters long, microplastics are invisible to the naked eye, which enables them to appear in everything from clothing to food to coral reefs. Scientists have declared them a "global emergency" because of their potential to negatively impact human health, and many still seem at a loss for how to combat an invisible enemy. Tracey Woodruff, a researcher at the University of California, San Francisco, is not one of those scientists. She studies how microplastics impact fertility and child development, and as a world leader on the topic, she is well-suited to describe how to protect against them, as she did in an interview with Business Insider. Woodruff identifies four areas in which she has effectively reduced her children's exposure to microplastics: Cooking, cleaning, clothing, and heating. With cooking, she describes mostly eating food prepared in the home, often made with fruits and vegetables. "We know that … microplastics can come from packaging that leaches into food," she says. "So it's really important to eat food that's not fast food or packaged food." Another way to protect against microplastics is to stay on top of cleaning. Woodruff says that she dusts once a week and vacuums bimonthly. Her family also takes their shoes off before entering the house, because they can pick up microplastics and potentially track them inside. A major concern with microplastics is how prevalent they are in clothing. Woodruff's solution? Buy natural, and buy old. Organic materials like cotton and linen are far less likely to contain plastics than their artificial counterparts, and older shirts not made via current manufacturing processes are also less likely to contain them. How much effort are you willing to make to reduce the amount of plastic and toxins in your home? I'll do whatever it takes Only if it's an easy swap Only if it's cheaper Not interested Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Heating plastic in the microwave and washing plastic containers in the dishwasher is also rather precarious. "We also don't use dishwashing pods, because those are packaged in plastic," Woodruff stated to Business Insider. "It's basically the same thing as the microwave. Heat causes degradation of the plastic material, and it's super hot in your dishwasher." Overall, Woodruff seems cautiously optimistic about being able to combat the more dangerous effects of microplastics. She acknowledges how damaging they can be, but reminds us that there is still plenty of time to change our ways. "There is certainly enough evidence to take action to prevent future harms." Join our free newsletter for easy tips to save more and waste less, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Forbes
3 days ago
- Health
- Forbes
From Closet To Bloodstream: The Silent Microplastics Crisis In Fashion
Clothing shopping Every time we wash our clothes, an invisible crisis unfolds. According to Eco Standard, polyester, acrylics, nylon and polypropylene are synthetic fibers and make up 70% of the fiber market. As a result of this composition, 35% of all primary microplastics in the ocean come from the aforementioned synthetic textiles. Moreover, these plastic threads less than 5 millimeters long, are released in billions with every laundry cycle. The scale is staggering. A research published in Science Direct indicated that an average can release up to 700,000 microfibers. A recent 2022 Environmental Technology and Innovation research indicated that Wastewater plants capture only about 65% of these fibers leaving a significant amount to flow into rivers and oceans. TOPSHOT - French scientist and member of the association "4P Shore & Seas" Edgar Dusacre shows ... More microplastic waste collected on the Aquitaine coast on the beach of Contis, southwestern France, on August 17, 2020. - (Photo by MEHDI FEDOUACH / AFP) (Photo by MEHDI FEDOUACH/AFP via Getty Images) This invisible pollution doesn't stop at marine ecosystems. According to a University of New Castle research, humans consume an estimated 5 grams of microplastics per week, which is equivalent to the weight of a credit card. In 2022, research in Environmental International found microplastics in 77% of human blood samples. Microplastics have also been found in lung tissue and human placentas, raising concerns about toxicity and chronic inflammation. Certain plastic additives like phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA), often present in synthetic fibers, are known endocrine disruptors linked to infertility and cancers according to the National Library of Medicine. Globally, the fashion industry is heavily reliant on synthetics and found in over 70% of clothing produced today uses fossil-fuel-derived fibers, with polyester alone accounting for about 52% of total fiber production. Moreover, the demand for synthetic fibers is expected to grow to 93 billion USD by 2030 up from 63.93 billion USD in 2022 according to Statista. The microplastic crisis is woven into the very fabric of modern fashion. With synthetic fibers dominating the market and billions of microfibers escaping into waterways and human bodies, the environmental and health risks are undeniable. As consumers, small shifts such as choosing natural fibers, washing more carefully, capturing waste, and investing in better-quality clothing can collectively drive meaningful change. Addressing the invisible waste from our wardrobes is no longer optional; it is essential for protecting both the planet and public health.
CNET
6 days ago
- Health
- CNET
Stop Reheating Your Food in Takeout Containers. Here's Why
When hunger and laziness coalesce, reheating last night's takeout or the leftover pasta you took home from a restaurant in the microwave seems like the best idea. But if you don't do it properly, you could be ingesting microplastics and harmful chemicals. But is plastic contamination as dangerous as experts say? All signs point to yes. Study after study has shown that the resulting chemical exposure of microplastics could pose significant health risks, linking to increases in medical issues like infertility and even cancer. Most takeout containers are not heat-safe Most black plastic containers are not microwave-safe. Image by Marie LaFauci / Getty "If you're using takeout containers to reheat food, they need to be labeled as heat-safe," advises Ricardo Jarquin, executive chef of Loews Coral Gables in Miami. "Most restaurants do not use them because they're more expensive." Aluminum, cardboard and paper-based containers are typically plastic-free and safe to store and reheat food. Cheap plastic takeout containers are mostly not safe and should never be used to reheat food. Styrofoam is even worse because it melts in the microwave, a clear indication that it is an unsafe vessel for reheating food. Read more: These 7 Takeout Containers Don't Belong in the Recycling Bin What to use instead of plastic It might sound like more work but bringing your own food storage container for leftovers is the safest bet. FreshSplash/Getty So what's the best way to reheat that delicious meal? We chatted with Jarquin, who has overseen culinary operations and food safety protocol for major hotel chains including Four Seasons, Hilton, and Marriott, as well as Hope Montgomery, owner of Brick & Mortar in St. Petersburg, FL, to get the skinny on safe use of takeout containers. Ideally, the restaurant is using compostable paper, aluminum or cardboard products, which can be found at Brick & Mortar and is Montgomery's material of choice. A surefire way to guarantee that food is stored and reheated in a heat-safe container (whether by initial temperature or via microwave) is to simply use your own. "The safest containers are BPA-free, or even better, glass ones like Pyrex," recommends Jarquin. "Stainless steel and aluminum are great, too, just not for the microwave." One of our favorite options is this colorful 10-piece set that offers the convenience of multiple sizes. This means you can limit the shape to accommodate the amount you plan to reheat or take home from the restaurant, from an entire entree to a few bites of dessert. Beware of plastic containers marketed as microwave- and freezer-safe Many plastic containers are marketed as "freezer- and microwave-safe," but that's not the case. Rubbermaid Many plastic containers are marketed as "freezer- and microwave-safe," but that's mostly marketing jargon. Plastic containers should really never be frozen or microwaved. Ziploc and Rubbermaid are facing a lawsuit for advertising its plastic-based containers as "microwave safe" and "freezer safe." When heated, plastic containers are found to leach chemicals into food. When frozen, the plastic often breaks off, which can contaminate food. How to reheat food safely Deli containers may be considered food-safe but glass and ceramic are safer options for reheating food in the microwave. Julien McRoberts/Getty Even more important than reheating your food so it tastes good is making sure it's safe to eat. Never reheat your leftovers in a non-heat-safe vessel. That includes most cheap plastic containers used by restaurants, such as plastic clamshells or black plastic containers. Deli containers like the ones you get your grocery store chicken salad in are considered "food safe" for storage but it's still not recommended to use them to reheat food at high temperatures. When reheating food in the microwave, always use glass or ceramic. Keep any containers, lids or utensils that contain plastic or rubber out and use for serving only. How to reheat food so it tastes good An air fryer is one of our favorite ways to reheat leftovers. ThaiAside from the risks of plastic exposure when hot food is stored in those containers, you'll want to ensure that reheating leftovers maintains the overall quality. "Though microwaving is quick and easy, better results can often be achieved by reheating on the stovetop," says Montgomery. "A little extra fat like olive oil and butter, as well as seasoning, can also be helpful," she adds, noting that this doesn't pertain to some dishes like her restaurant's famed beef tenderloin carpaccio, which should be consumed within its entirety on location. Jarquin echoes these sentiments. "You get a much better result when reheating leftovers in a frying pan or in the oven," he stresses, revealing that some dishes may even taste better when enjoyed the next day. "At Americana Kitchen, the rigatoni with vodka sauce keeps getting tastier the next day. Also, any of our pizzas or the mushroom pasta definitely gets better the next day. The flavors soak in even more and the texture stays great when reheated slowly," he says. Other foods recommended by Jarquin for enjoying at home after dining include "stews, curries, chili, and lasagna," which are typically items where the flavors can keep developing overnight. Concerns about bacteria growth Food, including cooked rice, can develop bacteria quickly if not stored properly. Chris Monroe/CNET Another risk to consider with leftovers is the rapid formation of bacteria that can lead to often brief yet sometimes serious illnesses. In short, the longer food sits out, the quicker these spores grow. "The general rule is that it takes about two hours at room temperature and one hour if it's really hot out" (usually above 90 degrees Fahrenheit), said Jarquin. "After that, bacteria can grow quickly and you don't always see or smell it. That's why it's important to either serve food hot, chill it fast or keep it properly stored." Read more: I'm Not Messing Around With Leftover Rice - You Shouldn't Either At the end of the day, if you're even the slightest bit fearful of microplastics and/or foodborne illnesses, no leftover is worth the temporary satisfaction. Accept your losses and task yourself with whipping up your own homemade delicacy to ensure safe, plastic-free bites within the comfort of your own kitchen. For a comprehensive guide to food safety protocol, check out the CDC's Four Steps to Food Safety.
The Independent
6 days ago
- Health
- The Independent
Scientists fear Britain's entire food chain is contaminated as study finds microplastics in bugs
Plastic pollution is harming slugs, beetles, snails and earthworms, new research has found, raising fears Britain's entire food chain has been contaminated. Researchers found more than one in ten bugs had fragments of plastic in their stomachs, causing harmful chemicals to be passed on to larger animals that feed on them, like birds and hedgehogs. The study, by scientists at Sussex and Exeter universities, analysed more than 580 bug samples from 51 sites across Sussex. Microplastics were found in almost 12 per cent of bugs with the highest levels recorded in earthworms (30 per cent) and slugs and snails (24 per cent). Polyester, most likely from clothes, was the most common type of plastic found in the invertebrates tested. Researchers suspected these plastic fibres came from dried human sewage sludge which is used as fertiliser by some farmers and can contain fibres from washing machines. One common garden black beetle was found with a 4.5mm long piece of nylon inside it- that's a quarter of its body length. Although animals that feed on decaying plant matter had the highest rates of plastic, carnivorous insects, such as ladybirds, were also affected. Researchers say the findings raise fresh concerns about the long-term effects of plastic pollution and its impact on biodiversity and that it should no longer be seen as solely a marine issue. 'We were surprised by just how widespread this plastic contamination is,' said lead author Emily Thrift, Ecology Doctoral Tutor at the University of Sussex. 'This is the first study to find plastics consistently turning up across an entire community of land invertebrates. 'Similar plastic types were found in hedgehog faeces in our earlier research, and they seem to be entering the diet of birds, mammals, and reptiles via their invertebrate prey.' One previous study on insects from 2024 revealed ingesting plastic can lead to stunted growth, reduced fertility and changes in liver, kidney, and stomach function in various species, raising alarm among conservationists. In another 2020 study published in the journal Global Change Biology, dippers, a type of small bird, were found to be ingesting about 200 plastic particles a day from the insects they eat. Three in four of the fragments found in the birds were less than 0.5mm in size but were up several millimetres in length. Professor Fiona Mathews, Environmental Biologist at the University of Sussex, stressed that microplastics are now found in every level of the food chain, from bugs to mammals. She said: 'Attention is currently focused on litter as the main source of contamination, but these findings suggest multiple sources ranging from clothing to paint.' The researchers say their work, which spans six invertebrate groups and four levels of the food chain, highlights the need to research how these different plastics are damaging the environment and implement stronger measures to limit plastic pollution.
Associated Press
6 days ago
- Health
- Associated Press
New Research Links Microplastics to Brain Health — Echo's Whole Home Filter Provides Protection
SALT LAKE CITY--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 28, 2025-- As alarming new research reveals microplastics accumulating in the human brain—especially in individuals with dementia— Echo is offering a practical solution that starts at the tap: advanced filtration technology designed to reduce harmful contaminants, including microplastics. A recent study in Nature Medicine (2025) found significant levels of microplastics in the brain tissue of 52 deceased individuals. On average, each brain contained approximately 7 grams of plastic—roughly the weight of a plastic spoon. Individuals with dementia had up to three times more microplastics than those without cognitive decline. Most concerning, the study shows microplastic levels in brain tissue have increased by 50% since 2016, raising urgent questions about long-term effects on brain health and cognitive function. 'Microplastics are no longer just an environmental concern—they're showing up in our bodies, likely contributing to inflammation, oxidative stress, and possibly even neurological damage,' said Dr. Tyler W. LeBaron, MSc., Ph.D., founder and executive director of the Molecular Hydrogen Institute. 'While we can't control all environmental factors, improving water quality is one of the most immediate and effective steps we can take. Thanks to advances in filtration technology, we now can reduce exposure to these invisible contaminants and protect our health for the long term.' Given the growing body of evidence surrounding microplastic exposure, Echo has developed solutions that go beyond just drinking water—protecting your entire household from these harmful contaminants. Echo Pure™ Whole Home Water Filter The Echo Pure Whole Home Water Filter is a state-of-the-art, five-stage filtration system designed to deliver clean, contaminant-free water to every faucet, showerhead, and appliance in your home. This advanced system combines KDF-55 and KDF-85 with catalytic carbon to remove a wide range of contaminants, including microplastics, chlorine, chloramine, bacteria, viruses, PFAS, lead, and fluoride. Its innovative reticulated foam design ensures consistent contact with the filtration media, preventing channeling and maintaining optimal purification. Built with a durable fiberglass tank, the Echo Pure™ system is engineered for long-term performance, capable of filtering up to 1 million gallons of water, and backed by a 10-year warranty—offering families peace of mind with every drop. 'Many people focus on the water they drink, but they often overlook the water they bathe in, the steam they breathe, and what their skin absorbs every day,' said Josh Carr, CEO of Echo. 'That's why whole-home filtration is so important—it's about protecting your health on all fronts. What's more, emerging research shows that hydrogen—already known for its health benefits—may also help the body to break down microplastics. It's exciting to see hydrogen technology contributing to solving one of the world's most pressing environmental issues.' Echo is dedicated to providing clean, hydrogen-enriched water that promotes whole-body health. With over a decade of innovation and a focus on science-backed wellness, Echo is leading the way in functional water technology. To learn more about Echo's Whole Home Water Filter and the science behind cleaner, healthier water, visit About Echo Echo is a pioneer in hydrogen health, dedicated to helping people unlock and sustain peak performance by transforming water into a clean source of cellular support. From advanced home water systems to portable wellness solutions, Echo works with the body to promote internal balance, resilience, and consistent energy. Backed by peer-reviewed science, trusted by health experts, and engineered for everyday living, Echo makes hydrogen health accessible, effective, and transformative. For more information, visit View source version on CONTACT: Media Contact: Alex Koritz KORITZ Communications 801-450-8005 [email protected] KEYWORD: UTAH UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA INDUSTRY KEYWORD: ENVIRONMENT CONSTRUCTION & PROPERTY CHEMICALS/PLASTICS HVAC UTILITIES MANUFACTURING BUILDING SYSTEMS GREEN TECHNOLOGY ENERGY SOURCE: Echo Copyright Business Wire 2025. PUB: 05/28/2025 11:51 AM/DISC: 05/28/2025 11:51 AM
