Microplastic consumption is a concerning development that can feel impossible to escape, as studies on the increased risk of plastics seemingly pop up constantly. One of the best things I’ve learned to do when I am feeling overwhelmed is to reach out to experts for their advice.
It’s important to note that we don’t necessarily need to overhaul every kitchen product. We asked seven different scientists which plastic items they would be most motivated to replace in their kitchens to avoid microplastics in food, so that we have an approachable place to start. What surprised me is that most of them were passionate about replacing different things, like plastic cutting boards with wooden boards or plastic spatulas with stainless steel spatulas. You don’t need to replace all of these things; pick the item you feel is the most applicable to your cooking routine. That’s what I’ll be doing!
Replace: Nonstick Pans
Grab: Cast-Iron or Carbon Steel Pans
Lodge 10.25-Inch Cast-Iron Skillet
Amazon
Teflon, the nonstick coating used in many pans, is a form of plastic, along with PFAs. “Nonstick pans are coated with fluorinated polymers, typically referred to as perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances or PFA chemicals. These chemicals are known to be toxic and leech into your food when cooking, especially when used with other cookware—think metal forks or spatulas—that scratch off the coating,” says Anna Marie LaChance, a Chemical Engineering Lecturer at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.
She recommends a cast-iron pan if you’re ok with its heavier weight. “They’re naturally nonstick with use, able to be placed right in the oven and easier to maintain than you think!” This Lodge pan is one of the best on the market, according to tests by EatingWell.
Merten & Storck 10-Inch Black Carbon Steel Skillet
Amazon
If you want something similar, a carbon steel skillet offers the same heat and durability as cast-iron but is lighter. The Merten & Storck option is a great place to start because it’s not too expensive and has just the right amount of room for cooking tasks, whether you’re searing salmon or sautéing vegetables.
Replace: Microfiber Towels
Grab: Cotton Towels
Homaxy Cotton Waffle-Weave Dish Towel Set
Amazon
Towels are products we don’t often think of swapping, but could make a big difference. Not only that, but cotton sets are inexpensive—this one is only $10. “Microfiber towels are made from synthetic fabrics, such as polyester and polyamide, which are derived from plastic. Friction from cleaning and washing microfiber towels produces significant amounts of microplastics,” says Megan Meyer, who holds a Ph.D. in microbiology and immunology and works as a science communications consultant.
“It’s estimated that textiles produce about 35% of the microplastic pollution in the world’s oceans, so switching to natural fibers like cotton can help reduce the production of microplastics. Cotton has the added benefit of being super absorbent and durable, making it a great option for kitchen towels.”
Replace: Plastic Cutting Boards
Grab: Wooden Cutting Boards
John Boos Chop-N-Slice Maple Cutting Board
Amazon
Two scientists specifically called out plastic cutting boards. “Cutting on plastic cutting boards has been shown to shed up to 50 grams of plastic each year,” says Dr. Jennifer Brandon, Environmental Scientist and Sustainability Consultant at Wild Beacon Consulting.
Others agree: Saee Pansare, a former food research and development scientist with a degree in food engineering and technology, urges folks to swap their plastic versions, too. “Knives not only cut through our food, but they also cut through the plastic chopping board, releasing microplastics into the food. Cutting is one of the most aggressive activities that we do with our cooking utensils, and one should be mindful of its impact on the non-food compounds released in the food,” Pansare says.
Replacing your board with a durable wooden cutting board is the best way to go, and I love John Boos models. This board is one of our tried-and-true favorites because it’s durable and generously sized. It might cost more, but the double-sided design means this cutting board will last for years to come.
Replace: Pod-Based Coffee Makers
Grab: Standard Coffee Makers
Cuisinart 14-Cup Programmable Drip Coffee Maker
Amazon
A forgotten culprit Dr. Brandon wants folks to avoid is coffee machines with plastic pods. “You’re pouring boiling water through plastic right into your cup. You’re bound to be exposed to so many microplastics, and then there are the cups themselves,” she says, adding that they aren’t as recycling-friendly as we think, either. Because of that, Dr. Brandon recommends buying another coffee maker that skips the step entirely to avoid additional unnecessary exposure. This Cuisinart model is one of our favorites—it performs well and brews flavorful cups, no matter how much you make.
Replace: Plastic Spatulas
Grab: Silicone or Stainless Steel Spatulas
OXO Stainless Steel Spatula
Amazon
“I would replace plastic spatulas. As a scientist studying microplastic pollution, I’ve seen how plastic can degrade and shed tiny particles, or leach chemicals,” says Dr. Lisa Erdle, an ecotoxicologist, microplastics expert, and Director of Science & Innovation at the 5 Gyres Institute. “Spatulas are often used at high temperatures, which increases the risk of leaching and microplastic release. I’ve swapped mine for silicone or stainless steel alternatives—they’re safer for cooking and longer-lasting.” This OXO spatula is a simple, all-stainless-steel pick with a classic turner-style design. Use it to flip anything like salmon, burgers, fried eggs and more.
GIR Silicone Spatula Set
Amazon
If you prefer the ease of silicone—a more durable and long-lasting option—this set is an excellent pick. I love my GIR utensils because they’re durable, heat-resistant and can be washed easily. This set has the shapes and sizes you need for everyday cooking, including a turner, a spatula and a spoon.
Replace: Styrofoam Cups
Grab: Reusable Cups
Yeti Rambler 20-Ounce Tumbler
Amazon
To put it simply, almost everything is better than Styrofoam. “I’d replace all Styrofoam cups,” says Bryan Quoc Le, Founder and Principal Food Consultant at Mendocino Food Consulting. “The problem with Styrofoam is that it is very fragile and easily fragments into microplastic particles. It is also tough to clean, lightweight and hard to recycle, so it often ends up in the landfill or the ocean. The monomer of Styrofoam, known as styrene, is implicated as a potential carcinogen. So there are few reasons, if any, to reuse a Styrofoam cup.”
Quoc Le says there are plenty of alternatives to replace those cups with. Most of the time, if I ever use a Styrofoam cup, it’s for coffee. This Yeti tumbler is my favorite reusable choice—it keeps my coffee hot, sippable and easy to clean. The plastic lid is a moot point for me. I don’t always use it, but when I do, I remind myself that it’s a better cup, and you’d be hard-pressed to find one that doesn’t have a plastic lid.
