Democracy Now! Audio Kitchen Nightmare: How Plastic in Everyday Objects Leaches into Food, Hurting Human Health, Environment
Dec 8, 2025
Judith Enck, former EPA regional administrator and author of The Problem with Plastic, shares her journey of reducing plastic use in her kitchen. She discusses the dangers of microwaving food in plastic and the environmental impact of plastic waste exports. Enck highlights surprising health findings linking microplastics to serious health risks and emphasizes the need for alternatives like glass and stainless steel. She also addresses the powerful lobbying of plastic manufacturers and legislation aimed at reducing plastic packaging.
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Replace Plastic Kitchenware
- Remove plastic kitchen items and replace them with glass, steel, or wood to limit food contact with plastic.
- Carry stainless steel tiffins for takeout and avoid microwave plastic and Tupperware storage.
Get Rid Of Black Plastic Utensils
- Empty your utensil drawer of black plastic items because they often contain recycled electronic waste that can leach chemicals.
- Dispose of heavily contaminated black plastic rather than keeping it out of reluctance to throw things away.
Avoid Hot Plastic For Drinks
- Avoid single-use plastic coffee pods and plastic-lined tea bags because hot water increases microplastic release.
- Use loose-leaf tea with a metal infuser and choose glass or metal coffee makers and filters when possible.
