New Delhi, December 8, 2025 :
Heating food in plastic containers or microwaving meals in plastic is one of the fastest ways toxic microplastics enter your body – and global plastic pollution is projected to triple by 2040, warn leading scientists.
In an exclusive conversation with National Geographic, Britta Baechler, Director of Ocean Plastics Research at Ocean Conservancy, and Dr Douglas Walker, microplastics and public health expert from Emory University, revealed that microplastics have now been found in human brains, lungs, digestive systems, and even umbilical cords. Yet science still doesn’t fully understand the long-term damage.
“Completely avoiding plastic is currently impossible,” says Baechler, “but the single most effective step individuals can take is to never expose plastic to heat – especially when it comes into contact with food or drink.”
Every year, 11 million metric tons of plastic enter our oceans. By 2040, that number could triple. Microplastics have been detected from mountain peaks to the air we breathe. Even disposable coffee cups with plastic lining release billions of particles when filled with hot liquid.
Most Dangerous Combo: Heat + Plastic Baechler personally never reheats food in plastic at home and avoids hot beverages in plastic-lined cups when outside. “Heat dramatically increases the leaching of harmful chemicals and microplastics,” she warns.
Another hidden source? Your laundry. Washing synthetic clothes releases microfibers that flow into wastewater, eventually reaching farmland as fertilizer and entering the food chain. Baechler recommends:
- Washing at low temperatures
- Using gentle detergents
- Installing microfiber-capturing laundry balls or external filters
60 Companies Cause Half the World’s Plastic Pollution A groundbreaking study shows just 60 corporations are responsible for nearly 50% of global plastic waste. Experts demand three urgent changes:
- Drastically cut production of single-use plastics (the most common litter on beaches)
- Overhaul outdated recycling systems
- Consumers pressure brands and governments – because public voice forces industry action
Dr Walker slams excessive packaging: “Why does every vegetable need individual wrapping? Why so many layers for basic items? Responsibility lies with manufacturers too.”
Until systemic change happens, personal action remains your strongest shield. Switch to glass, steel, or ceramic for heating and storing food. Say no to plastic straws, cutlery, and bottled water. Your small choices today can protect your family from tomorrow’s invisible poison.
