Are Dishwasher Pods Harming You?

Plastic is everywhere in most kitchens: cling wrap seals food instantly; disposable utensils require no washing; and dishwasher pods skip the hassle of measuring powders or liquids.

All of that convenience involves a major downside, though. After plastics are used, they often break down into tiny pieces, called microplastics, that wind up in the environment and, ultimately, our bodies.

In the case of dishwasher pods, companies have tried to design the plastic films to dissolve harmlessly. Even so, some researchers are concerned these pods may persist in the environment, ultimately adding to other plastic-related exposures that science is increasingly linking to chronic diseases.

Here’s the latest research on how dishwasher pods might affect health.

The unique plastic used in pods

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