Circulating microplastics in the human body pose potential risks, although the full extent of these risks is still being researched. Here are some potential effects:

1. **Inflammation and Tissue Damage**: Microplastics can trigger inflammatory responses in the body, leading to tissue damage. This inflammation can be localized or systemic, affecting various organs and systems.

2. **Toxicity**: Microplastics can absorb and concentrate toxic chemicals from the environment. When these microplastics are ingested or enter the body through other routes, they can release these chemicals, potentially causing toxicity and adverse health effects.

3. **Disruption of Biological Processes**: Microplastics may interfere with biological processes in the body. For example, they can disrupt the endocrine system by acting as endocrine disruptors, mimicking or blocking hormones and interfering with hormone signaling pathways.

4. **Immune Response**: The presence of microplastics in the body can trigger immune responses, leading to chronic inflammation and other immune-related disorders.

5. **Genotoxicity**: Some studies suggest that microplastics may cause genetic damage (genotoxicity), which could increase the risk of mutations and contribute to the development of diseases such as cancer.

6. **Bioaccumulation and Biomagnification**: Microplastics can bioaccumulate in living organisms, meaning they accumulate in tissues over time. Additionally, they can biomagnify in the food chain, with higher concentrations found in organisms higher up the food chain, potentially leading to increased exposure for humans who consume seafood.

Research on the health effects of microplastics is ongoing, and more studies are needed to fully understand the risks they pose to human health. However, minimizing exposure to microplastics by reducing plastic usage, improving waste management practices, and supporting policies to mitigate plastic pollution can help reduce potential health risks.

1. Stainless Steel: Durable, versatile, and resistant to rust and corrosion.

2. Cast Iron: Excellent heat retention and even cooking, but requires seasoning and maintenance.

3. Aluminum: Lightweight and conducts heat well, but can react with acidic foods.

4. Copper: Excellent heat conductivity, but can be expensive and requires maintenance.

5. Ceramic: Non-reactive and non-toxic, but may be prone to chipping or cracking.

6. Glass: Non-reactive and easy to clean, but may not conduct heat as well as other materials.

Common kitchen items that come into contact with food:

• Plastic Tupperware or food storage

• Zip lock bags / plastic wrap

• Utensils - Particularly made with cheap plasicts that melt & shed easily

• Cutting boards - HUGE source of microplatics in blood stream

• Baking materials - Molds / muffin cups / bread load pans - ALSO Mixing bowls / Measuring cups /

• Strainers / Food processing tools

• Plastic bodied blender/ food processors / assorted appliances

• Children’s cups - sippy cups / plastic cups / water bottles

• Liquid / sauce storage such as - tea pitchers / sauce bottles

• Herbs / Spices & oils bought & stored in plastic