The author of the article Dr M S Krishnamurthy is an Ayurveda clinician, academician and researcher.
Plastic has become an unavoidable part of our life. Banana wrapped in plastic, paper straw with plastic cover! We are missing the point of going green.

 

Foods with plastic 

Chemicals like BPA, phthalates, and PFAS can leach from plastic packaging into food, especially fatty, salty, or acidic foods. These chemicals are linked to various health problems, including cancer, reproductive issues, and neurological damage. Microplastics, tiny plastic particles, can also contaminate food. Ingesting microplastics has been linked to physical harm, toxicity, and even cancer. Plastic packaging can easily harbor bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms, leading to food-borne illnesses.

Environment

From an environmental perspective, plastic packaging contributes significantly to plastic waste, which ends up in oceans, landfills, and other environments, harming wildlife and ecosystems. Producing plastic packaging requires massive amounts of energy, water, and raw materials, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and resource depletion. Most plastic packaging is not biodegradable, meaning it doesn’t break down naturally and can persist in the environment for centuries.

Microplastics have been detected in bottled water, with some brands containing higher levels than others. Even in beer also micro plastics are reported, particularly in those brewed with water containing high levels of microplastics. Studies have shown that the microplastics can be released from clothing, particularly synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon too.

How food is contaminated due to plastics?

Food can be contaminated by plastics through various pathways:

• Direct cooking through plastic containers or tools
• Heating or warming foods
• Keeping the food warm or chill in plastic containers for prolonged period
• Storage and carrying the food articles in hot boxes or plastics where chances of contamination with plastic derivatives are possible
• Canning the corrosive beverages in plastic containers of bottling with them.

Common chemicals in plastics

• BPA (Bisphenol A): Found in plastic water bottles, food cans, and packaging materials.
• Phthalates: Used in plastic packaging, especially for fatty foods like meats and cheeses.
• PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances): Used in non-stick coatings, food packaging, and processing equipment.
• Microplastics: Found in various types of plastic packaging, including plastic bags, wraps, and containers.

 

Foods affected

• Seafood: Due to micro-plastic pollution in oceans.
• Fatty Food: Such as meats, cheeses, and oils, which can absorb chemicals from plastic packaging
• Canned Foods: Due to the use of BPA-lined cans.
• Processed Foods: Which often use plastic packaging materials.

 

Reducing plastic contamination in food

Instead of plastic containers it is better to opt glass ort stainless steel vessels or containers, wherever possible. Bio degradable materials like paper, cardboard, or plant-based plastics can be preferred. Ceramic or copper coated or stainless steel coated plates and glasses are also good replacements for plastic. The old and traditional methods like leaf or leaf plates are good to opt when it is needed for single time usage. Opting for fresh eatables instead of plastic stored foods are also healthy and economic too.

Hazards of micro-plastic intake

Plastics can leach toxic chemicals, such as BPA, phthalates, and PFAS, into food, which can be ingested. These chemicals can disrupt the endocrine system, leading to hormonal imbalances and reproductive issues. Exposure to these chemicals has been linked to an increased risk of certain cancers. Few varieties of microplastics are linked to neurological damage, including cognitive impairment and behavioral changes. Long term intake of the subtle amount of micro plastics is proven to increase the risk of chronic diseases, such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Plastic chemicals are linked to reproductive issues, including infertility, birth defects, and developmental delays too.

What is the immediate need?

Awareness about the different modes how we are afflicted with plastics are to be spread around us. Community outreach programs must be conducted by the Government and organizations as well as NGOs. The brands that use eco-friendly packaging and sustainable practices must be popularized. Encourage policymakers must be very serious and honest in implementing regulations and putting ban on single-use plastics and promote sustainable packaging alternatives.

Ayurvedic solutions

As per Ayurveda, whatever might be the contaminant, we need to improve our immunity and strength to fight them. This is possible by
Regular Panchakarma detoxification – This helps to mitigate the adverse effects of plastic on the body and to reduce chances of diseases caused by micropastic.

Dinacharya – healthy daily regimen, with nasal drops, oil pulling, etc. are a way to naturally perform min-detoxifications everyday.