Expecting Moms: Stay Away from Fast Food to Avoid Plastic in Packaging, Says Research

Have you ever wondered about plastic in your food?

Imagine, we might be eating up to 250,000 tiny plastic pieces during our holiday meals like on Christmas! A study from the University of Washington's doctors tells us that fast food—like cheeseburgers and chicken nuggets—might have something called microplastics from the packaging or gloves people use to make our food.

Microplastics and Your Health

Microplastics are super tiny plastic bits smaller than a grain of rice. Nanoplastics are even tinier, and you can't see them without special tools. These plastics can stick around in our world for a long, long time and not in a good way. They can mess up our health, leading to serious problems like trouble focusing, babies born too early, and not weighing enough when they're born.

For the Expecting Moms

Especially for women who are going to have a baby, it's extra important to think about what you eat. The researchers aren't blaming moms, though. They say we need better rules for how food is wrapped up and handled, so everyone stays safe.

It’s Not Just About Food Wrappers

Plastic chemicals aren't only in food packaging—they're in so many things like shower curtains, cars, lunchboxes, and shoes! These products can make some growths in the womb called uterine tumors, or fibroids, grow faster.

Pressure on Packaging

In 2023, many food packaging companies got a lot of pressure to say goodbye to a bad chemical called PFAS which was getting into their food wrappers and boxes. Health and environment experts pushed for changes, saying that there are better ways to package things. Some states are even making their own rules against these harmful plastics.

What's Being Done About It?

Right now, the rules about PFAS are pretty loose, but some places like California are making their own tougher rules. And some big restaurants and stores are starting to stop using this kind of packaging, too.

While the packaging might seem small and unimportant, it really adds up over time—especially with so much food delivery and takeout these days. Healthier options can make a big difference!

So next time you unwrap that sandwich or burger, think about what's really around your food. It's not just about a tasty meal, it's about keeping yourself and the planet healthy! 🌏💚

Psst! Always keep an eye on what’s wrapping your food. It’s more important than you might think!

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