Have you considered the positive impact of having a plastic free kitchen? When you stop and take stock of just how much plastic is in your kitchen, it’s quite shocking. From food containers, plates, bowls, utensils, and straws to things like cling film and sandwich bags – you can find plastic everywhere.
Why aim for a plastic free kitchen?
On top of environmental pollution, there are dangers to mixing food with plastic. First, it’s important to note that there are many types of plastics, all of which are made up of chemicals. You’re exposed to small amounts of these chemicals every time you microwave your food in a plastic container. The heat causes chemicals to leach into your food. With consistent exposure over time, your risk for fertility issues goes up. There is also heightened concern for pregnant women, their foetuses, and children exposed to heated plastic.
According to Dr. Russ Hauser, a professor at Harvard, some studies have shown that even without heating, chemicals in plastic can leach into food.
Then there’s the issue of microplastics. These tiny bits of plastic are now in our food, water, and air. In fact, it’s estimated that every human eats a credit card’s worth of microplastic each week. Everything plastic you already own or purchase in the future will one day break down into microplastics. I don’t know about you, but I want plastic free food.
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Creating a plastic free kitchen
Disgusted by plastic and ready to make the change? First things first, it’s always best to use up items or gift them to someone who’d love them before getting rid of them. As you slowly phase things out, here are my favourite swaps to turn your kitchen into a plastic free paradise.
Food containers – Switch out your plastic food containers for glass ones – I like this set in particular as it comes with bamboo lids. Reach for a mason jar for smaller meals and snacks on the go.
Single use wraps and bags – To replace plastic sandwich bags, go for silicone snack size or gallon size bags, like this. Swap cling film for beeswax food wraps. For more info on plastic wrap alternatives, check out my post here.
Cooking Utensils and pans – Swap any plastic cooking utensils, like spatulas and whisks, for their stainless steel or wooden counterparts. The same applies to pans, avoid non-stick pots and pans.
Plates, straws, and cutlery – Still using plastic plates, cutlery, or straws at home? Pick up ceramic plates instead. Stock up on glass or stainless steel straws. Swap out plastic forks for the stainless steel variety. Check out your local charity shop for these items – there’s always plenty of plates and cutlery on the shelves!
Cleaning supplies – If you’re using a traditional sponge or scrubbing brush, swap it out for a bamboo option like this one or see here on how to make your own reusable dish cloth. Rather than store bought cleaners, make your own in a glass spray bottle. For easy recipes on how to make your own cleaning products, see here.
Conclusion
The kitchen is one of the rooms in your house where you can make a huge impact. When you take small steps toward a plastic free kitchen, your health as well as the environment will thank you. Drop a comment below and let me know what swap you’ll go for first!
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