A natural lifestyle is about making conscious choices that benefit our health and the planet. One growing concern in this journey is the infiltration of plastics into our food supply. Microplastics and plastic-related chemicals are increasingly found in our bodies, raising alarms about their impact on health and the environment.
Plastics, particularly microplastics (particles smaller than 5mm) and nanoplastics (even smaller), are pervasive in our environment. Studies estimate that the average person ingests about 5 grams of plastic per week—roughly the weight of a credit card. These tiny particles, along with chemicals like bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates, can disrupt our health in subtle but significant ways.
Research links plastic ingestion to a range of health issues. Microplastics can accumulate in our organs, potentially causing inflammation. Chemicals leaching from plastics, such as BPA and phthalates, are known endocrine disruptors, which can interfere with hormone function.
It is this hormone dysfunction that is known to interfere with our boy’s most basic metabolic functions. There is a growing consensus in newly enlightened medical circles that points to this deterioration of fundamental metabolic processes as the root cause of ALL chronic diseases. This chronic disease epidemic is especially prevalent in the US.
Sources of Plastics in Our Food Supply
To reduce plastic ingestion, we must first understand where it comes from. Plastics enter our food supply through various pathways, often unnoticed in our daily routines.
Plastic Packaging
The most common source of plastic exposure is food packaging. Items like plastic bottles, containers, and wraps can leach chemicals into food, especially when heated or exposed to acidic or fatty foods. For example, heating a plastic container in the microwave can release BPA or phthalates into your meal. Packaged foods like snacks, dairy, and meats are often stored in plastic, increasing the risk of contamination.
Microplastics in Seafood
Marine life, from fish to shellfish, often ingests microplastics from polluted waters. A 2017 Science of the Total Environment study found microplastics in 25% of fish sampled from markets worldwide. When we consume seafood, we may unknowingly ingest these particles. Shellfish like mussels and oysters, which filter large volumes of water, are particularly prone to microplastic accumulation.
Agricultural Practices
Plastics are used extensively in agriculture, from mulch films to irrigation systems. These can break down into microplastics that contaminate soil and crops. A 2020 study in Environmental Research detected microplastics in fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots, likely absorbed from contaminated soil or water.
Drinking Water
Both tap and bottled water can contain microplastics. A 2018 study by Orb Media found microplastics in 93% of bottled water samples globally. Tap water isn’t immune either, as microplastics can enter through aging infrastructure or environmental contamination. Boiling water doesn’t remove these particles, making water a significant exposure route.
Kitchen Tools and Utensils
Plastic cutting boards, spatulas, and storage containers can release microplastics when scratched, heated, or worn down. For example, cutting on a plastic board can shed tiny particles into food, especially during vigorous chopping.
Practical, Simple Ways to Reduce Plastic Ingestion
Reducing plastic ingestion doesn’t require a complete overhaul of your life. Small, intentional changes can significantly lower your exposure while aligning with a natural living ethos. Here are practical steps to get started:
Switch to Plastic-Free Food Storage
Replace plastic containers with glass, stainless steel, or ceramic alternatives. Glass jars are perfect for storing leftovers, grains, or snacks, and don’t leach chemicals. For on-the-go meals, invest in stainless steel lunchboxes or bento boxes. If you must use plastic, choose BPA-free options and avoid heating them in microwaves or dishwashers, as heat accelerates chemical leaching.
Use Reusable Beeswax Wraps
Ditch plastic wrap and bags for beeswax wraps, which are reusable, biodegradable, and perfect for covering bowls or wrapping sandwiches. You can buy them from eco-friendly brands or make your own with cotton fabric and beeswax. They’re washable and last for months, reducing both waste and exposure.
Choose Fresh, Unpackaged Foods
Shop at farmers’ markets or bulk stores where you can buy unpackaged produce, grains, and legumes. Bring your own reusable cloth bags or containers to avoid plastic bags. Opt for whole foods like fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats over pre-packaged, processed options, which often come in plastic.
Filter Your Drinking Water
Use a high-quality water filter certified to remove microplastics, such as reverse osmosis or activated carbon filters. Store filtered water in glass or stainless steel bottles instead of plastic ones. If you buy bottled water, choose brands that use glass or aluminum packaging, though these are less common.
Switch to Plastic-Free Kitchen Tools
Replace plastic cutting boards with wooden or bamboo ones, which are durable and naturally antimicrobial. Use wooden or stainless steel utensils for cooking and serving. When shopping for cookware, opt for cast iron, stainless steel, or ceramic instead of non-stick coatings, which can contain plastic-derived chemicals like PFAS.
Be Mindful of Seafood Choices
While seafood is nutritious, choose low-risk options to minimize microplastic exposure. Smaller fish like sardines or anchovies tend to have lower microplastic levels than larger predatory fish like tuna. When possible, source seafood from sustainable fisheries with cleaner waters, and rinse shellfish thoroughly before cooking.
Support Organic and Local Agriculture
Organic farms are less likely to use plastic mulches or contaminated irrigation water. Buying from local farmers also reduces the need for plastic packaging during transport. Ask farmers about their practices at markets to ensure you’re supporting low-plastic methods.
A Note on Silicone
Glass and stainless-steel containers often contain silicone seals. Unlike most plastics, silicone is made from silica (sand) – not petroleum. There is limited research that silicone is not linked to serious negative health effects like endocrine disruption. Personally, I consider silicone safe when used at room temperature or in moderate-heat heat cooking – up to 428°F (220°C).
Living Naturally, Plastic-Free
Reducing plastic ingestion is a vital step toward a healthier, more sustainable life. By understanding the risks, we can make informed choices to protect ourselves and the planet. The sources of plastics in our food supply, from packaging to agriculture, are pervasive, but they’re not insurmountable. Simple swaps like glass storage, reusable wraps, and filtered water can significantly lower your exposure without overwhelming your routine.
As you embrace these changes, remember that natural living is about progress, not perfection. Each small step moves you closer to a plastic-free, health-conscious lifestyle.