Microplastic mayhem ♳

Consumer Reports recently measured levels of phthalates, a type of endocrine-disrupting “plasticizer” used to make common plastics more pliable and durable, in common fast food and grocery brands.

The original article is a great read, fast and processed foods, and especially seed oils, pass through literal miles of plastic tubing and packaging before ending up on your plate or in your pantry.

The packaging is just part of the problem, microplastics are even detectable in traditionally raised cow and lamb meat.

The human testicle study also made a big splash last week, and could be a contributing factor to our plummeting male fertility and testosterone levels.

The shorter your food supply chain the better. Liquids, especially ones that contain fats like dairy and oils are going to have a higher propensity to breaking down plastics. Solid fats like butter and tallow share far less surface area with the walls of their storage containers, and should therefore absorb less plastic.

The science on all of this is still emerging, we’re not exactly whether food is even the top vector for entering our bloodstream (air, water and clothing are suspect), how bad it is, if it’s based on packaging or handling and if detox is possible.

Some steps I’ve taken to live a less plastic life:

• Air filter in bedroom

• Shower filter

• Organic cotton underwear

• Go to butcher shop when possible

• Eat local produce

• Don’t eat anything out of a box or a bag