Does Cutting Harder on a Plastic Board Shed More Plastic? What the Study Shows

Every night in kitchens across the country, the rhythmic thud of a knife on a cutting board is the soundtrack to dinner prep. But what if that sound concealed a silent invader?

The 50-gram Question

It's a question that's been gnawing at me since I first read a 2023 study in Environmental Science & Technology: could the plastic board under my knife be adding an unwanted ingredient to our meals? The study estimated that a plastic chopping board could shed up to ~50 grams of microplastics per person per year under their assumptions. That's roughly the weight of a small apple, invisibly sneaking into our food without us noticing.

What Science Says About Microplastics and Cutting Boards

The study wasn't alone in its findings. Another research in Food Additives & Contaminants Part A corroborated that plastic boards can transfer microplastics onto food, specifically meat. It seems the act of cutting, particularly on plastic, might be more than just preparing our ingredients—it could be mixing in microplastics as well.

The Role of Force in Microplastic Release

One of the most intriguing findings from the Environmental Science & Technology study was that the force applied while chopping could significantly affect the amount of microplastics released. Chopping carrots on a polyethylene (PE) board resulted in more microplastic particles being released than not chopping at all. This suggests that the way we use our cutting boards might be just as important as the material they're made from.

What This Means for Your Kitchen

The thought of microplastics in our food is unsettling. But what does it mean for the busy parent trying to prepare a healthy meal? Here's what you need to know:

Reducing Needless Exposure

While the health effects of microplastics are still being studied, the principle of reducing needless exposure to potentially harmful substances is a sound one. In the meantime, why add plastic particles to your family's food when you don't have to?

Considering Alternatives to Plastic Boards

If the thought of microplastics has you reaching for a different kind of cutting board, you're not alone. Many are turning to alternatives that don't involve plastic. Here are a few options:

• Wooden Boards: Known for their classic look and feel, wooden boards can last for years with proper care. However, they require regular oiling to prevent knife marks and maintain their integrity.
• Resin Boards (Richlite/Epicurean Style): Made from compressed wood fibers and phenolic resin, these boards are durable and less prone to knife marks, although not entirely immune.
• Titanium Boards: Known for their durability and low maintenance, titanium boards develop a natural patina over time, which some find aesthetically pleasing and a sign of a well-used kitchen tool. Unlike plastic, they don't contribute to microplastic pollution.

FAQ: Cutting Boards and Microplastics

Q: Are all plastic cutting boards bad?

A: Not necessarily. It's about the potential release of microplastics into our food, which is why some are opting for alternatives to reduce needless exposure.

Q: Can I still use my plastic board?

A: If you choose to continue using a plastic board, consider the findings of the study and take precautions, such as minimizing force when cutting and cleaning thoroughly after use.

Q: How can I clean a plastic cutting board properly?

A: After each use, wash your cutting board with warm soapy water and a brush. For plastic boards, avoid using abrasive cleaners that could scratch the surface and potentially release more microplastics.

Q: Are there any cutting boards that are considered safe?

A: No cutting board is completely immune to wear and tear, which can lead to small particles. However, choosing materials like wood, resin, or titanium can help reduce the risk of microplastic contamination.

A Final Thought

In the midst of bustling kitchen life, it's worth taking a moment to consider what's truly on our cutting boards. As we continue to learn more about microplastics, making informed choices about the tools we use in our kitchens can help us serve up not just delicious meals, but also peace of mind.

Learn more about our titanium cutting board, an excellent alternative to plastic boards.

Written by Adam Oliver, founder of Perfect Titanium.