Microplastics are a term used to describe plastic particles smaller than 5mm that can be found in the environment. They can result from a wide range of products, including water bottles and clothing, but their biggest source is improperly disposed single-use plastic products.
Microplastics enter our rivers, lakes, and oceans where fish or other animals eat them. Humans can also ingest them with food or water. The tiny bits of plastic can then move up the food chain into larger animals such as cetaceans-whales and dolphins.
Therefore, there is a great need to consider living a life unplastic.
How To Avoid Microplastics
One of the best ways to help the environment and get rid of microplastics is by reducing the use of single-use plastics such as plastic bags and straws, which are among the most common plastic products most of us use.
Research shows that plastic bags and bottles make up a significant portion of the plastic pollution in our oceans. These can be difficult to recycle and often end up in landfills, while straws can cause damage to marine animals, such as sea turtles and whales, which ingest them by mistake.
Use Reusable Produce Bags
You can avoid microplastics by switching to reusable produce bags. Keeping them in good condition is important, so they don’t tear or wear out quickly. The best way to do this is by washing them regularly with soap and water.
Here is how to use reusable produce bags;
You can use reusable produce bags for fruits, vegetables, and herbs. You can also use them to transport cut flowers and small gifts during the holidays. When shopping at farmers’ markets, you should take advantage of this opportunity to reduce plastic waste by bringing your own reusable bag or purchasing one from the market itself.
You can buy reusable produce bags in many different sizes so that you can choose one that fits your needs perfectly. They come in different colors, patterns, and designs. Some even have pockets for storing small items like utensils or napkins that you may want to bring along with you.
Use Glass Or Stainless Steel Containers
Avoid plastic containers with a number 1 or 3 on the bottom. These plastics are less robust and are more likely to break down over time. In the event that you do use plastic, make sure that you don’t leave it in high temperatures or expose it to ultraviolet light for extended periods of time. Doing so will make the plastic more likely to break down and release these toxins into your food.
We recommended that you use glass or stainless steel containers instead of plastic containers. This ensures that your food stays fresh and free from contamination by microplastics.
Be Mindful Of How You Store Food In The Fridge
If you buy fresh produce, make sure you take the time to put it into freshie food saver bags before you place it into the refrigerator. This will help to prevent it from coming into contact with plastics, which can leave microplastics in your food and cause you to ingest them. Another benefit of using freshie food saver bags is that your fruits and vegetables will last longer as they’re protected from air, which causes them to spoil faster.
Key Takeaway
Microplastics can be found in many everyday items, including clothing, sunscreens, toothpaste, and even some food products. Unfortunately, once they have been ingested, which can happen by accident or through carelessness on our part, eliminating them from our bodies is nearly impossible. So what can you do? Avoid purchasing these products in the first place. Try to read product labels and judge whether or not a product is worth the risk.
