The average person now consumes the equivalent of a credit card's worth of plastic every week—a fact that's prompted one of Australia's most recognisable health experts to completely overhaul his kitchen.
Dr Norman Swan, the ABC's familiar voice on health matters, has ditched virtually every plastic item from his cooking space.
Gone are the containers, cutting boards, non-stick pans, and even the cling wrap. In their place: glass, wood, stainless steel, and cast iron.
It might sound extreme, but plastics have infiltrated every recess of the planet, including your lungs, kidneys and other sensitive organs. Scientists are scrambling to understand their effects on health, and the research emerging in 2025 is more concerning than ever.
In this article
Your brain on plastic: the latest findings
Research found microplastic concentrations were higher in the brains of deceased patients who had been diagnosed with dementia compared to the brains of deceased individuals without dementia.
Even more alarming, in a 2025 study on mice, real-time imaging showed microplastics moving through their brains and blocking blood vessels.
While the researchers said it would be 'premature' to suggest that the process could replicate in human brains, the authors concluded that 'the potential long-term effects of microplastics on neurological disorders such as depression and cardiovascular health are concerning'.
Dr Swan's kitchen transformation reflects growing evidence that these effects consist of oxidative stress, DNA damage, organ dysfunction, metabolic disorder, immune response, neurotoxicity, as well as reproductive and developmental toxicity.
For Australians over 60, whose bodies may process environmental toxins less efficiently, this research carries particular weight.
'Research found microplastic concentrations were higher in the brains of deceased patients who had been diagnosed with dementia'
Why seniors should pay attention
Dr Rebecca Kuriakose from the American Medical Association notes that in older individuals, the body's surveillance mechanisms are less present, and exposure to microplastics could lead to adverse effects, especially if you have other conditions like vascular dementia or heart disease.
This isn't just theoretical. Research shows initial evidence that microplastics exposure has an impact on cardiovascular health, especially chronic, noncommunicable conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes and stroke.
In fact, in terms of its relationship with stroke risk, microplastics concentration was comparable to factors such as minority race and lack of health insurance.
Source: ABC News In-depth / Youtube.
Where microplastics lurk in your home
You might assume your kitchen is the main culprit, but research reveals surprising hotspots. When scientists placed detection devices throughout an Australian home, the highest concentrations of microplastics were found in the bedroom and bathroom, where synthetic fibres are most prevalent.
The children's play area ranked second—no surprise given the abundance of plastic toys.
Inhalation of microplastics is an emerging pathway of exposure that raises significant health concerns. Airborne MPs are generated from various sources, including synthetic textiles, vehicle tire degradation, plastic breakdown, and industrial activities.
Even more concerning, it is estimated that people inhale 68,000 microplastic particles every day.
Did you know?
Did you know?
Research shows that tire wear-and-tear contributes up to 10 per cent of the plastics that end up in our oceans and enter our food chain—meaning your daily commute is contributing to the plastic in your dinner.
The Australian solution: affordable swaps that make sense
Here's the encouraging news: you don't need to spend a fortune or overhaul everything at once. Australian seniors are discovering practical alternatives that often save money in the long run.
ALDI's surprisingly popular new 'low tox' kitchen range, starting from just $6.99, has shoppers racing to replace their plastic storage with glass and stainless steel alternatives.
While ALDI's 'low tox' range won't eliminate all exposure to concerning chemicals, it represents an affordable step toward reducing daily toxic load—particularly important for those over 60 whose bodies may struggle more with environmental pollutants. Given the quality matches the low price point, and considering that products like these generally last longer than plastic alternatives, the investment makes both health and financial sense.
Smart swaps for seniors
- Glass storage containers tend to be less expensive than stainless steel containers initially; however, stainless steel containers are more long-lasting, making them a more cost-effective option in the long run
- Thrift stores or second-hand shops often have high-quality stainless steel or cast iron cookware. Buying second-hand is not only cost-effective but also one of the most sustainable choices you can make
- The initial cost might be more than plastic but the sustainable alternative often lasts longer
The gradual approach that works
NSW-based naturopath Abbey Farrell, who specialises in detoxification, explains the concept driving ALDI's new range: 'What we mean by 'low tox' is that the product is less likely to contain things that may be harmful to our health and environment—forever chemicals like phthalates, microplastics and other ingredients linked to poor health'.
The key is taking it slowly. One strategy could be to replace items with plastic-free alternatives as they run out or wear out. This approach allows you to spread the cost and adjustment period over time, making the transition more manageable.
Start with these simple swaps:
Storage containers: Glass containers are a fantastic alternative to plastic. They are durable, non-toxic, and can be used for a myriad of storage purposes. From storing leftovers in the fridge to packing your lunch to go, glass containers are a versatile option.
Cutting boards: Replace kitchen cutting boards with safer hardwood or bamboo alternatives. Hardwood has antimicrobial properties that discourage bacteria growth. More specifically, end-grain boards, like cherry, maple, and walnut, are sturdy and don't dull knives as quickly.
Food wrap: Quit your cling film habit and reach instead for beeswax or plant-wax wraps. They breathe, seal, and fully compost rather than slowly leaching chemicals into the food wrapped within.
The cost reality check
Plastic cutting boards are often the most budget-friendly buy, but you can find relatively affordable wood ones as well. Something like bamboo cutting board sets, even though they cost around $12 per board, will likely last much longer than a plastic alternative. When you factor in longevity, the maths works in your favour.
What the experts are saying
Research points to potentially serious issues, including vascular disease, cancers, respiratory disorders, inflammatory bowel disease, as well as dizziness and neurological symptoms.
However, the truth is, there's still a lot we don't know about the risks of microplastics in kitchen gear, like how they break down and how many 'forever chemicals' actually end up in our food.
So no, you don't need to panic-buy a whole new set of spatulas today. But if you're eager to avoid these potentially harmful substances, there are steps you can take.
Based on the available evidence, it is reasonable to believe that microplastics may play some role in health and we must take steps to reduce exposures.
While it is not feasible to completely avoid ingesting or inhaling microplastics when they are present in the environment, given how ubiquitous and tiny they are, researchers said the best way to minimize microplastics exposure is to curtail the amount of plastic produced and used, and to ensure proper disposal.
A word about Dr Swan
It's worth noting that Dr Norman Swan, while a respected health communicator, has faced criticism in the past.
In 2022, he was forced to apologise for falsely linking the deaths of cricket great Shane Warne and former Australian Senator Kimberley Kitching to Covid-19.
ABC managing director David Anderson described Swan's comments as 'incorrect' and 'in error', and Swan was counselled over the matter. This context doesn't invalidate the microplastics research, but it's important to consider the source alongside the broader scientific evidence.
Small changes, big differences
Don't sweat the small stuff—it's important to start small and forgive slip-ups. Like anything you are giving up, just think of it as part of the process of changing to a more plastic-free lifestyle. After a while you will wonder why you didn't do it sooner.
The beauty of this approach is that every little effort you make helps. Even small changes can make a significant difference when we all work together. You're not just potentially protecting your health—you're contributing to a larger environmental solution.
Remember, the most environmentally friendly way to green your kitchen is to use the plastic items you have, and then when they reach the end of their life, look at replacing them with plastic-free alternatives. There's no need to throw out perfectly good items—just make better choices when replacement time comes.
What This Means For You
Whether Dr Swan's complete plastic purge is necessary remains debatable, but the growing body of research suggests that reducing our exposure to microplastics is a sensible precaution—particularly for those of us who've accumulated more life experience and want to protect the health we've worked so hard to maintain.
What changes have you made to reduce plastic in your kitchen? Have you tried any of the affordable alternatives mentioned here, or discovered other budget-friendly swaps that work well for you?
Primary Source
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/ar...tml?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490
Your brain is full of microplastics: are they harming you?
Cited text: Plastics have infiltrated every recess of the planet, including your lungs, kidneys and other sensitive organs. Scientists are scrambling to understan...
Excerpt: plastics have infiltrated every recess of the planet, including your lungs, kidneys and other sensitive organs.
https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-025-00405-8
Microplastics Are Everywhere. Here’s What Duke Research Is Doing About Health Concerns | Duke Today
Cited text: Another study that West was involved in found microplastic concentrations were also higher in the brains of deceased patients who had been diagnosed w...
Excerpt: Research found microplastic concentrations were higher in the brains of deceased patients who had been diagnosed with dementia compared to the brains of deceased individuals without dementia
https://today.duke.edu/2025/06/micr...hat-duke-research-doing-about-health-concerns
Microplastics: Are we facing a new health crisis—and what can be done about it?
Cited text: In a 2025 study on mice, real-time imaging showed microplastics moving through their brains and blocking blood vessels.
Excerpt: in a 2025 study on mice, real-time imaging showed microplastics moving through their brains and blocking blood vessels.
https://www.weforum.org/stories/2025/02/how-microplastics-get-into-the-food-chain/
Microplastics: Are we facing a new health crisis—and what can be done about it?
Cited text: In a 2025 study on mice, real-time imaging showed microplastics moving through their brains and blocking blood vessels. While the researchers said it ...
Excerpt: in a 2025 study on mice, real-time imaging showed microplastics moving through their brains and blocking blood vessels.
https://www.weforum.org/stories/2025/02/how-microplastics-get-into-the-food-chain/
Potential Health Impact of Microplastics: A Review of Environmental Distribution, Human Exposure, and Toxic Effects | Environment & Health
Cited text: These effects consist of oxidative stress, DNA damage, organ dysfunction, metabolic disorder, immune response, neurotoxicity, as well as reproductive ...
Excerpt: these effects consist of oxidative stress, DNA damage, organ dysfunction, metabolic disorder, immune response, neurotoxicity, as well as reproductive and developmental toxicity
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/envhealth.3c00052
Why savvy Australians over 60 are swapping plastic containers for ALDI's $7 'low tox' kitchen range | YourLifeChoices
Cited text: PhysioEd health guidance for seniors · Dr Rebecca Kuriakose from the American Medical Association notes that in older individuals, the body's surveill...
Excerpt: Dr Rebecca Kuriakose from the American Medical Association notes that in older individuals, the body's surveillance mechanisms are less present, and exposure to microplastics could lead to adverse effects, especially if you have other…
https://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/health/aldi-low-tox-kitchen-range-seniors-plastic-alternatives/
New Evidence Links Microplastics with Chronic Disease—American College of Cardiology
Cited text: 'This study provides initial evidence that microplastics exposure has an impact on cardiovascular health, especially chronic, noncommunicable conditio...
Excerpt: Research shows initial evidence that microplastics exposure has an impact on cardiovascular health, especially chronic, noncommunicable conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes and stroke
https://www.acc.org/About-ACC/Press...ence-Links-Microplastics-with-Chronic-Disease
New Evidence Links Microplastics with Chronic Disease—American College of Cardiology
Cited text: In terms of its relationship with stroke risk, for example, microplastics concentration was comparable to factors such as minority race and lack of he...
Excerpt: in terms of its relationship with stroke risk, microplastics concentration was comparable to factors such as minority race and lack of health insurance
https://www.acc.org/About-ACC/Press...ence-Links-Microplastics-with-Chronic-Disease
Frontiers | A review of microplastic pollution and human health risk assessment: current knowledge and future outlook
Cited text: Inhalation of microplastics (MPs) is an emerging pathway of exposure that raises significant health concerns (Chen et al., 2025). Airborne MPs are gen...
Excerpt: Inhalation of microplastics is an emerging pathway of exposure that raises significant health concerns.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/environmental-science/articles/10.3389/fenvs.2025.1606332/full
Microplastics: Are we facing a new health crisis—and what can be done about it?
Cited text: It is estimated that people inhale 68,000 microplastic particles every day and some experts believe we are in the midst of a plastic health crisis.
Excerpt: it is estimated that people inhale 68,000 microplastic particles every day
https://www.weforum.org/stories/2025/02/how-microplastics-get-into-the-food-chain/
Microplastics a growing challenge to health and the environment | Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
Cited text: Research shows that tire wear-and-tear contributes up to 10 per cent of the plastics that end up in our oceans and enter our food chain—an issue that requires...
Excerpt: Research shows that tire wear-and-tear contributes up to 10 per cent of the plastics that end up in our oceans and enter our food chain
https://hsph.harvard.edu/news/microplastics-a-growing-challenge-to-health-and-the-environment/
Why savvy Australians over 60 are swapping plastic containers for ALDI's $7 'low tox' kitchen range | YourLifeChoices
Cited text: Enter ALDI’s surprisingly popular new ‘low tox’ kitchen range, starting from just $6.99, which has shoppers racing to replace their plastic storage wi...
Excerpt: ALDI's surprisingly popular new 'low tox' kitchen range, starting from just $6.99, has shoppers racing to replace their plastic storage with glass and stainless steel alternatives.
https://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/health/aldi-low-tox-kitchen-range-seniors-plastic-alternatives/
Why savvy Australians over 60 are swapping plastic containers for ALDI's $7 'low tox' kitchen range | YourLifeChoices
Cited text: While ALDI's 'low tox' range won't eliminate all exposure to concerning chemicals, it represents an affordable step toward reducing daily toxic load—p...
Excerpt: ALDI's surprisingly popular new 'low tox' kitchen range, starting from just $6.99, has shoppers racing to replace their plastic storage with glass and stainless steel alternatives.
https://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/health/aldi-low-tox-kitchen-range-seniors-plastic-alternatives/
Why savvy Australians over 60 are swapping plastic containers for ALDI's $7 'low tox' kitchen range | YourLifeChoices
Cited text: When comparing alternatives, glass storage containers tend to be less expensive than stainless steel containers initially; however, stainless steel co...
Excerpt: Glass storage containers tend to be less expensive than stainless steel containers initially; however, stainless steel containers are more long-lasting, making them a more cost-effective option in the long run
https://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/health/aldi-low-tox-kitchen-range-seniors-plastic-alternatives/
Plastic-Free Kitchen? Here's How You Can Make It Happen—Gehman Remodeling Design
Cited text: Thrift stores or second-hand shops often have high-quality stainless steel or cast iron cookware. Remember, buying second-hand is not only cost-effect...
Excerpt: Thrift stores or second-hand shops often have high-quality stainless steel or cast iron cookware.
https://www.gehmanremodeling.com/creating-a-plastic-free-kitchen-what-you-need-to-know/
These women swapped their kitchen plastic for sustainable options | Home Beautiful
Cited text: “I believe that scourers, like straws, plastic bags and single use cups is a global issue that all of us can solve.”Kim Wood, Important Ants ... “The ...
Excerpt: The initial cost might be more than plastic but the sustainable alternative often lasts longer
https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/kitchen-ideas/sustainable-kitchen-products-swap/
Why savvy Australians over 60 are swapping plastic containers for ALDI's $7 'low tox' kitchen range | YourLifeChoices
Cited text: ... NSW-based naturopath Abbey Farrell (BHSc), who specialises in detoxification and is deeply passionate about helping clients reduce their toxic loa...
Excerpt: NSW-based naturopath Abbey Farrell, who specialises in detoxification, explains the concept driving ALDI's new range: 'What we mean by 'low tox' is that the product is less likely to contain things that may be harmful to our health and…
https://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/health/aldi-low-tox-kitchen-range-seniors-plastic-alternatives/
Plastic-Free Kitchen? Here's How You Can Make It Happen—Gehman Remodeling Design
Cited text: One strategy could be to replace items with plastic-free alternatives as they run out or wear out. This approach allows you to spread the cost and adj...
Excerpt: One strategy could be to replace items with plastic-free alternatives as they run out or wear out.
https://www.gehmanremodeling.com/creating-a-plastic-free-kitchen-what-you-need-to-know/
Plastic-Free Kitchen? Here's How You Can Make It Happen—Gehman Remodeling Design
Cited text: Glass containers, for example, are a fantastic alternative to plastic. They are durable, non-toxic, and can be used for a myriad of storage purposes. ...
Excerpt: Glass containers are a fantastic alternative to plastic. They are durable, non-toxic, and can be used for a myriad of storage purposes.
https://www.gehmanremodeling.com/creating-a-plastic-free-kitchen-what-you-need-to-know/
It's Time To Ditch These Plastic Kitchen Items For Safer Alternatives—House Digest
Cited text: Considering the looming health risks of plastic, it's probably time to replace kitchen cutting boards with safer hardwood or bamboo alternatives. Hard...
Excerpt: Replace kitchen cutting boards with safer hardwood or bamboo alternatives. Hardwood has antimicrobial properties that discourage bacteria growth.
https://www.housedigest.com/1756521/get-rid-of-plastic-kitchen-items-utensils-safe-alternatives/
Plastic-Free Kitchen: 10 Kitchen Swaps for a Healthier Home
Cited text: Quit your cling film habit and reach instead for beeswax or plant-wax wraps. They breathe, seal, and fully compost rather than slowly leaching chemica...
Excerpt: Quit your cling film habit and reach instead for beeswax or plant-wax wraps. They breathe, seal, and fully compost rather than slowly leaching chemicals into the food wrapped within
https://www.remodelista.com/posts/plastic-free-kitchen-10-swaps-eliminate-plastic/
It's Time To Ditch These Plastic Kitchen Items For Safer Alternatives—House Digest
Cited text: Plastic cutting boards are often the most budget-friendly buy, but you can find relatively affordable wood ones as well. For instance, something like ...
Excerpt: Plastic cutting boards are often the most budget-friendly buy, but you can find relatively affordable wood ones as well.
https://www.housedigest.com/1756521/get-rid-of-plastic-kitchen-items-utensils-safe-alternatives/
Microplastics a growing challenge to health and the environment | Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
Cited text: Research points to potentially serious issues, including vascular disease, cancers, respiratory disorders, inflammatory bowel disease, as well as dizz...
Excerpt: Research points to potentially serious issues, including vascular disease, cancers, respiratory disorders, inflammatory bowel disease, as well as dizziness and neurological symptoms
https://hsph.harvard.edu/news/microplastics-a-growing-challenge-to-health-and-the-environment/
I, a pro baker, am ditching plastic kitchen gear for these 13 nontoxic alternatives
Cited text: That might sound ominous, but the truth is, there’s still a lot we don’t know about the risks of microplastics in kitchen gear — like how they break d...
Excerpt: the truth is, there's still a lot we don't know about the risks of microplastics in kitchen gear — like how they break down and how many 'forever chemicals' actually end up in our food.
https://shopping.yahoo.com/home-gar...these-13-nontoxic-alternatives-210031660.html
New Evidence Links Microplastics with Chronic Disease—American College of Cardiology
Cited text: Nevertheless, based on the available evidence, it is reasonable to believe that microplastics may play some role in health and we must take steps to r...
Excerpt: Based on the available evidence, it is reasonable to believe that microplastics may play some role in health and we must take steps to reduce exposures.
https://www.acc.org/About-ACC/Press...ence-Links-Microplastics-with-Chronic-Disease
Australian health expert apologises for linking Shane Warne death to Covid—NZ Herald
Cited text: Australian radio host Ben Fordham has unleashed on television health expert Dr Norman Swan after he falsely linked the deaths of cricket great Shane W...
Excerpt: he was forced to apologise for falsely linking the deaths of cricket great Shane Warne and former Australian Senator Kimberley Kitching to Covid-19
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/au...ne-death-to-covid/7FLJUWDUNRBUBMIBPTWUVI5I6U/
'Got it wrong': Norman Swan apologises for linking Warne's death to Covid, accepts he 'hurt the family'
Cited text: Norman Swan has been forced to apologise for falsely linking the deaths of Shane Warne and former Australian Senator Kimberley Kitching to Covid-19.
Excerpt: he was forced to apologise for falsely linking the deaths of cricket great Shane Warne and former Australian Senator Kimberley Kitching to Covid-19
https://www.theroar.com.au/2022/11/...es-death-to-covid-accepts-he-hurt-the-family/
Swan’s Warne, Kitching comments ‘incorrect’ and ‘in error’: ABC boss
Cited text: Normal text size Very large text size Advertisement ABC managing director David Anderson has described on-air comments by high-profile journalist Dr N...
Excerpt: ABC managing director David Anderson described Swan's comments as 'incorrect' and 'in error', and Swan was counselled over the matter
https://headtopics.com/au/swan-s-warne-kitching-comments-incorrect-and-in-error-abc-boss-32248390
These women swapped their kitchen plastic for sustainable options | Home Beautiful
Cited text: ... “Don’t sweat the small stuff,” says Lottie and Kim agrees—it’s important to start small and forgive slip-ups. “Like anything you are giving up, ...
Excerpt: Don't sweat the small stuff—it's important to start small and forgive slip-ups.
https://www.homebeautiful.com.au/kitchen-ideas/sustainable-kitchen-products-swap/
Cooking Consciously: 11 Practical Tips for a Sustainable Kitchen
Cited text: However, it’s vital to remember that every little effort you make helps. Even small changes can make a significant difference when we all work togethe...
Excerpt: every little effort you make helps. Even small changes can make a significant difference when we all work together
https://greenpan.com.au/blogs/greenpan-blog/how-to-create-a-sustainable-kitchen
How to go (almost) plastic-free in the kitchen | Friends of the Earth
Cited text: I’m not suggesting you throw out all the plastic in your kitchen and replace with plastic-free alternatives right this second. The most environmentall...
Excerpt: the most environmentally friendly way to green your kitchen is to use the plastic items you have, and then when they reach the end of their life, look at replacing them with plastic-free alternatives
https://friendsoftheearth.uk/sustainable-living/how-go-almost-plasticfree-kitchen
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