One easy way to cut out microplastics

Make the switch to silicone products.

Made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or low-density polyethylene (LDPE), traditional plastic wraps can release harmful chemicals when in contact with food. Even when not in use, plastic wraps can degrade over time, leading to microplastic contamination in household kitchens.[3] Not to fret! Silicone food wraps, huggers, and stretch lids are here to provide a safer, reusable solution for containers of all sizes. We love stretch lids because they conform to various shapes and sizes, reducing the reliance on disposable wrap. Plus, food huggers are a genius way to extend shelf-life of produce, creating an airtight seal on everything from cut-up citrus to avocado halves. See some of our favorites below.

Think about the cooking tools you reach for every single day. How many are made of plastic? Unfortunately, plastic cooking tools and utensils may contain melamine and flame retardants, both of which can migrate into food at high temperatures. And over time, plastic tools can naturally degrade, introducing microplastics into meals.[5] While wood and bamboo tools are still a great alternative to plastic, they can harbor bacteria with improper care and general aging. That’s why we love tools made from nonporous food-grade silicone, a lower-maintenance option altogether. From heat-resistant spatulas and hygienic basting brushes to non-stick baking mats and bendy straws, there’s a silicone alt for every kitchen activity. Bonus: Silicone ladles and serving spoons prevent scratching on non-stick cookware, reducing exposure to toxic Teflon-like coatings.[7]

Studies show that Americans use approximately 100 billion plastic bags annually, many of which end up in landfills or waterways and can leave behind microplastics for future exposure.[8] That’s why we’re huge proponents of silicone storage bags. Not only are they washable, reusable, and food-safe, but also, they won’t degrade over time — just one high-quality reusable silicone bag can replace hundreds of disposable plastic bags each year. And more research shows that switching to reusable silicone storage can reduce household plastic waste by up to 40% annually.[4] In addition to ultra-versatile silicone food storage bags, we love silicone ice cube trays for a freezer-safe, flexible way to store broth, baby food, and herbs. Plus, smaller silicone snack bags are an easy replacement for those single-use plastic baggies in school lunches and office lunches alike. See some product highlights below.

Round out your plastic-free kitchen with other alternative materials that keep your body and the environment safer. Glass is another durable, highly recyclable storage solution, while wood and bamboo are great biodegradable options for utensils and prep tools like cutting boards. You might have seen recent research going around that plastic cutting boards are a key culprit for microplastic intake, [7] so we love the idea of switching over to non-plastic alternatives! Alongside silicone, both glass and wood are incredible materials to help create a lower-waste, lower-toxin kitchen for your whole family.