It feels like every week there’s a new headline about microplastics showing up in our bodies.
A recent study even found microplastics in human blood for the first time, raising big questions about what all this plastic exposure means for our long-term health [The Guardian]. And it’s not just coming from the ocean or the air—we’re also getting it from the way we store and heat our food.
The good news? You can take control in your own kitchen. Let’s break down what’s happening and how to build a safer, microplastic-free routine with non toxic food containers.
What Are Microplastics (And How Do They Get Into Food)?
Microplastics are tiny particles (less than 5mm) that form when bigger plastics break down. While most people think of them as an ocean issue, the truth is they’re sneaking into our meals too.
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Heat speeds up plastic breakdown. When you microwave leftovers in a disposable container, those high temps encourage tiny particles and chemicals to migrate into your food [National Institutes of Health].
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Takeout containers are repeat offenders. Styrofoam clamshells, in particular, are notorious for leaching when they touch hot, oily food. In fact, some states have already banned Styrofoam for this very reason [EcoWatch].
The Hidden Dangers of Plastic Food Storage
It’s not just about tiny plastic fragments—it’s about the chemicals they carry with them.
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BPA & phthalates. These common plastic additives are linked to hormone disruption, fertility challenges, and developmental issues in children [Endocrine Society].
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Heat + plastic = chemical leaching. The hotter the food or the longer the storage, the more likely chemicals are to migrate into what you’re eating [Harvard Health].
If you’ve ever wondered why leftovers sometimes taste a little…off…plastic might be the reason.
What Non-Toxic Food Containers Should You Use Instead?
Thankfully, there are safer, non-toxic food container options that help you skip the microplastics and keep your meals fresh.
Glass
Classic and safe. Glass doesn’t leach chemicals, and it’s easy to clean. Downsides? It’s heavy, bulky, and not exactly something you want to toss in your tote bag for leftovers after dinner.
Stainless Steel
Durable, sleek, and often insulated. Great for lunches and travel, but stainless steel can’t go in the microwave, which limits its flexibility at home.
Platinum Silicone
This is where things get exciting. Platinum silicone is lightweight, flexible, and oven- and microwave-safe. Unlike cheaper silicone blends, LFGB-certified platinum silicone is rigorously tested to ensure it’s safe and non-toxic.
That’s why I designed BYOB. It’s a microplastic free food container that collapses to save space, has an attached lid so you never lose it, and is safe for both reheating and restaurant leftovers.
How to Transition to a Microplastic-Free Kitchen
The idea of replacing every plastic container in your house can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it all at once. Here are a few simple swaps:
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Start with the “high heat” items. Anything you use in the microwave or oven should be non-toxic—go glass or platinum silicone first.
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Upgrade your to-go routine. Keep one or two BYOBs in your bag or car so you’re ready for restaurant leftovers without Styrofoam.
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Phase out cracked plastics. The more worn plastic gets, the more it breaks down. Replace those first.
The Bottom Line
Microplastics aren’t just an environmental problem—they’re a daily exposure problem. But you can make a change starting with the containers you use every single day.
Want to avoid hidden plastics? Try BYOB — a safe, reusable platinum silicone container designed to help you eat well, live sustainably, and ditch microplastics for good.
