Do plastic cutting boards release microplastics into chopped vegetables for babies?
Yes, plastic cutting boards can release microplastics during chopping. A 2023 Environ Sci Technol study found polypropylene boards released more microplastics than polyethylene boards, and chopping carrots increased release from polyethylene boards.
Short answer: Yes. Plastic cutting boards can release microplastics during chopping. For baby food prep, I would use a well-maintained wood board instead.
What the research says
The 2023 Environ Sci Technol study Cutting Boards: An Overlooked Source of Microplastics in Human Food? tested chopping styles and board materials. It found that polypropylene boards released 5% to 60% more microplastic mass and 14% to 71% more microplastic particles than polyethylene boards. The study also found that chopping carrots increased microplastic release from polyethylene boards.
What to do instead
Use wood for produce and bread. Wash and dry it fully. Replace any board, wood or plastic, with deep grooves that cannot be cleaned.
The practical answer
For baby food prep, avoid deeply scored plastic boards. A smooth, well-maintained wood board is the better daily surface.
The research at a glance
| Study | Journal | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting Boards: An Overlooked Source of Microplastics in Human Food? | Environ Sci Technol | 2023 |
What to use instead
For baby food prep, use a smooth wood board instead of a deeply scored plastic cutting board.
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