Microplastics and kids: How to limit the risks

It’s a fact: plastic and chemicals used in plastic products are everywhere. There’s no way to avoid them in modern, day-to-day life.

But given a growing concern that many common food-related products are exposing kids to harmful substances and chemicals, how can you best protect your child?

There’s still a lot experts don’t know about the health effects of microplastics (the tiny pieces of plastics that are left when larger plastic items break down) and all the chemicals used in food products.

Soumya Adhikari, M.D., Pediatric Endocrinologist at Children's Health℠ and Associate Professor at UT Southwestern, and Michaelann Rangel, R.D., Clinical Dietitian at Children's Health, shares potential health risks and simple ways to minimize a child’s exposure to these potentially harmful substances.

How can microplastics and plastic chemicals used in food-related products affect our bodies?

Experts are still working to better understand how exposures to microplastics and other common chemicals can impact health.

“There’s a lot of internal communication between different organs through hormones. And we’re learning more about how exposure to certain substances we call “endocrine disruptors” may possibly disrupt that communication and happen during everyday activities – like heating up food,” says Dr. Adhikari.

Some names for various “endocrine disruptors” include:

• Bisphenols (also called BPAs or BPSs). BPAs have been used to make certain plastics and resins since the 1950s. They’re often found in canned foods, plastic baby bottles and plastic food storage containers.

• Phthalates. Phthalates are chemicals that are used to make plastics more flexible and to help fragrances last longer. They’re often found in food packaging, plastic wrap, and personal care products like deodorant, shampoos and lotions.

• Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). PFAS are chemicals used to help products resist oil, grease, water and heat. They’re sometimes referred to as “forever chemicals” and common in nonstick cookware, food packaging and water-resistant clothing.

“It was a big win for public health when, in February 2024, the FDA announced that fast food wrappers containing PFAS would no longer be sold in the U.S.,” said Rangel.

As endocrine disruptors build up in the body, they may make kids more likely to develop:

• Thyroid problems

• Obesity or other weight-related problems

• Disruptions in puberty and reproductive problems

• Neurological and nervous system conditions

• Heart disease

• Inflammation and certain immune conditions

• Certain cancers

9 tips to limit your child’s exposure to microplastics and other harmful chemicals

It’s not possible to avoid microplastics and endocrine-disrupting chemicals entirely. They’re in our soil, in our oceans – and some of the meat, fish and dairy products we consume. But there are steps you can take to minimize your exposure. And just taking one small step in the right direction can make a difference.

Tip #1: Buy BPA-free products

There are now more BPA-free products available.

Look for products with labels that say “BPA-free” on:

• Aluminum cans

• Food containers

• Food and snack storage bags

• Baby bottles

• Water bottles

Tip #2: Check the recycling codes on plastics

When possible, avoid plastic containers with recycling codes 1, 3, 6 or 7 because they’re more likely to break down or contain BPA.

You can typically find recycling codes on the bottom of plastic products. They look like small triangles with a number inside of them.

When possible, use safer plastics with a:

• Number 2 recycling code

• Number 4 recycling code

• Number 5 recycling code

Tip #3: Use products that don’t contain phthalates

Look for personal care products like cosmetics, shampoo and soap with labels that say:

• “Phthalate-free”

• "0% phthalates"

And be aware that many fragrances contain hidden phthalates – so fragrance-free products are often a safer choice.

Tip #4: Avoid heating plastics

Rangel cautions parents that heating plastic containers can break down the plastics and release harmful chemicals and particles into you and your child’s food.

A few ways to avoid this breakdown include:

• Not putting plastic containers in the microwave (even if they are labeled “microwave-safe”). Instead, heat food in glass or ceramic containers – and use a silicone lid or paper towel on top to prevent splatter.

• Not putting plastic containers in the dishwasher.

• Not leaving plastic water bottles in the sun or a hot car.

Tip #5: Use glass or stainless steel containers

If possible, swap out plastic food storage containers and beverage containers for glass or stainless steel ones.

Rubber and silicone containers are generally considered safer than plastic, but may not be as safe as glass and stainless steel.

“Choosing glass or stainless steel containers or water bottles can cost more at first, but they’ll typically last longer – and won’t break down and release harmful substances,” said Rangel.

Tip #6: Eat more fresh whole foods

By eating more fresh fruits and vegetables, you’ll increase your chances of better nutrition – and better health.

“Eating more fruits and veggies will naturally help you avoid microplastics and plastic-related chemicals. It may also mean you’ll consume fewer ultraprocessed foods and harmful food dyes,” said Rangel.

Get tips for how to get kids to eat more vegetables and how to prepare healthier snacks.

Tip #7: Consider silicone or wood toys for babies and toddlers

Plastic toys for young kids are impossible to avoid – and often end up in the child’s mouth. But, for example, it’s safer to give an infant a silicone teething ring than a soft plastic one. (Silicone does not contain plastic.)

Wooden toys can also be a safer choice than plastic ones – if you can find ones that fit your budget. They also tend to last a lot longer than plastic ones, which means you can pass them down from kid to kid.

Tip # 8: Swap out nonstick pans or replace old ones

The coating on nonstick pans contains PFAS. In general, the chances of the PFAS migrating into your food is low – but they get much higher if the pan is scratched or flaking.

So if you have nonstick pans that are scratched and degrading, consider replacing them. You also want to avoid using metal utensils on nonstick pans because they can easily scratch them.

And if you’d prefer to avoid all possible exposure to PFAS from your pots and pans, you can buy cast iron, stainless steel or ceramic cookware.

Tip #9: Choose reusable bottles and filtered water

Plastic water bottles are a big source of microplastics. Using fewer of them is an easy way to lower your child’s exposure. But we know families often choose bottled water because it’s quick or because they worry about tap water safety. Here are some safe and low-cost options:

• Use a reusable water bottle: Stainless steel or BPA-free plastic bottles can be filled and used again and again. They save money over time and help reduce plastic waste.

• Try a water filter: A filtered pitcher or faucet attachment can help make tap water cleaner and taste better. Some filters even remove lead and other harmful chemicals, and many are affordable.

• Refill at public water stations: Schools, parks, and other places often have filtered water refill stations. Bring a clean, reusable bottle to fill up when you’re out.

Learn more

Our nationally ranked pediatric endocrinologists at Children's Health are here to help kids and families understand endocrine conditions, answer your questions and manage conditions like obesity, diabetes and other endocrine disorders. Learn more about our programs and services.

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