The Brian Lehrer Show Why & How to Get Plastic-Free Kitchens
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Jul 24, 2025 Emma Wartzman, Senior Kitchen and Dining Writer at New York Magazine's The Strategist, shares her insights on going plastic-free in the kitchen. She discusses the health risks of microplastics and challenges in replacing common kitchen items. Wartzman highlights safer alternatives like silicone, wood, and stainless steel, while addressing misconceptions around black spatulas. She also offers practical tips from Chef Edward Lee on creating a sustainable kitchen and recommends eco-friendly materials to enhance both safety and cooking practices.
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Go Plastic-Free in Kitchen
- Try to go plastic-free in the kitchen as much as possible to reduce reliance on plastic items.
- Swap out plastic kitchen tools for alternatives which can be as good or better than plastic versions.
Plastic-Free Appliance Challenge
- Some kitchen appliances, especially coffee makers and blenders, are difficult to make fully plastic-free.
- Plastic parts remain in items like water tanks for durability and safety reasons.
Black Spatula Risks Clarified
- Initial viral concerns about black plastic spatulas leaching toxic chemicals were later found to be overstated due to errors.
- Despite lower risk, it's still sensible and easy to replace black plastic spatulas for safer alternatives.