Cutting boards can produce microparticles when chopping veggies
June 1, 2023 – A small-scale study in ACS’ Environmental Science & Technology suggests that they are an overlooked source of micrometer-sized particles. Most cutting boards are made of rubber, bamboo, wood or plastic. Over time, these kitchen implements develop grooves and slash marks from mincing, slicing and chopping food. Recently, researchers have shown that some plastic board materials, including polypropylene and polyethylene, can shed nano- and micro-sized flecks when cut with knives. Yet those studies didn’t assess how many of these microplastics could be produced during realistic food preparation scenarios. This would be an important piece of information because the particles might have negative health impacts if ingested.
