According to a study by The Journal of Food Science, humans ingest at least 74,000 microplastics every year. Almost a third of this comes from eating food in plastic containers.
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Harm to the body
When we ingest plastic, it can remain in the body and cause long-term medical problems, scientists say. The fact is that it contains many chemicals, including phthalates, bisphenol A, S and F, as well as polychlorinated biphenyls. Once in the body, they provoke the development of various diseases, in particular:
- crayfish;
- weakening of the immune system;
- decreased fertility in both men and women;
- obesity;
- developmental delay in children
- violation of the work of all organs and the like.
Equally worrisome is that mothers can pass microplastics through the placenta to their fetuses.
Plastic from dishes is transferred to food and harms the body / Photo by inferrapack
How to minimize plastic consumption
- Do not put plastic utensils in the microwave and dishwasher. Strong heat can increase the shedding of microplastics.
- If possible, use ceramic or glassware for takeout.
- Drink water from reusable stainless steel or glass bottles.
- Do not use food delivery containers.
- Vacuum and mop your home regularly. There is also a lot of plastic in the environment, and with dust, these particles enter the house. By removing it, we will also purify the air.