It’s no secret that microplastics have already infiltrated our lives, and nowhere is this more present than in our own homes. Microplastics — and even tinier nanoplastics — stem from daily tasks like cooking and cleaning. Now, research is pointing to the previously unexplored impact of dishwashing on microplastic pollution.
A new study published in American Chemical Society ES&T Water has revealed that washing plastic containers and utensils in a dishwasher releases plastic particles, which proceed to enter wastewater. Although the study confirmed that the release of microplastics in dishwashers is relatively low compared to other sources of microplastic pollution, it could still impose cumulative consequences on the environment.
Emerging research on microplastics has demonstrated that they are essentially ubiquitous, existing in many of the products we use. Food preparation and packaging products are a particular area of concern. Studies have identified plastic cutting boards and disposable food-grade nylon bags, ...
