Picture this: you're sitting down for a nice, relaxing meal, ready to dig into your favourite dish. But little do you know, there might be an uninvited guest joining you at the table - micro plastics. Yes, you heard that right. Those tiny, pesky particles that seem to be invading every aspect of our lives might just be making their way into our bodies through the food we eat. But are we really eating micro plastics? And if so, what exactly are we ingesting? Let's dive in and find out!
What's the Deal with Micro Plastics?
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let's take a moment to understand what micro plastics are. These minuscule pieces of plastic, measuring less than 5 millimetres in size, come from a variety of sources. They can be found in everyday items like plastic bottles, packaging materials, and even clothing. Over time, these plastics break down into smaller and smaller pieces, eventually becoming micro plastics.
Are We Really Eating Micro Plastics?
Now, the burning question: are we actually consuming these tiny plastic particles? Unfortunately, the answer is yes. Recent studies have found micro plastics in various food and drink products, including seafood, salt, honey, and even beer. It seems like these sneaky plastics have managed to infiltrate our food chain, making their way onto our plates without us even realising it. Everyday items like teabags have micro plastics found in them. Certain cosmetics use plastic to increase product absorption, toothpaste and exfoliators often contain micro-beads. There are a lot of brands that are plastic free so do a little research next time you need to stock up on your everyday essentials.
What Are We Ingesting?
So, what exactly are we ingesting when we consume micro plastics? Well, it's not like we're sitting down to a full-on plastic feast. Instead, these particles are present in trace amounts. But even in small quantities, they can add up over time. The most common types of micro plastics found in food include polyethylene and polypropylene, which are commonly used in food packaging and containers.
But it's not just our food that's to blame. Micro plastics can also be found in the air we breathe and the water we drink. They're everywhere! It's like they're playing a never-ending game of hide-and-seek, except we're the ones losing.
What Can We Do About It?
Now that we know micro plastics are making their way into our bodies, it's time to take action. While it may be impossible to completely eliminate our exposure to micro plastics, there are steps we can take to reduce it. For starters, we can opt for reusable containers and bags instead of single-use plastics. We can also support companies that are committed to reducing plastic waste and promoting sustainable practices.
Additionally, being mindful of our own plastic consumption can make a difference. By making small changes in our daily lives, such as using a reusable water bottle or saying no to plastic straws, we can contribute to a cleaner, plastic-free future.
Conclusion
So, the next time you sit down for a meal, remember that you might have some uninvited guests joining you - micro plastics. While it may be disheartening to know that they're making their way into our bodies, we can take steps to minimize our exposure. By being conscious of our plastic consumption and supporting sustainable practices, we can work towards a world where micro plastics are nothing more than a distant memory.