Organophosphate pesticides (OP) have been associated with a variety of health conditions for a long time. The link between pesticides and disruptions in the balance of the gut microbiome have been established by animal experiments and in-vitro models, but evidence on the effect of human exposures has been more limited. But it’s emerging that exposures to … Continued
Microfibres are microplastics measuring 5mm or less that are shed from clothing during wear and washing. Known as ‘secondary’ microplastics they are the result of primary plastic fibres breaking down. Synthetic fibres are made from chemicals to form plastic-like materials frequently used in everyday clothing, sports apparel, and period pants. The extent to which … Continued
Keeping dry when the weather is wet and raining is a centuries old problem. As the weather turns we’re reaching for outer layers that provide protection from wind and rain, but how are our clothes made waterproof? PFAS in waterproof clothing Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large group of chemicals first used for … Continued
Wastewater from laundry is a major contributor to microplastics in our waterways and oceans. It’s estimated that around a third of microplastic pollution arises from microfibres released when we wash our clothes and household textiles. All fabrics break down and release microfibres during washing into microscopic strands less than 5mm in length and 1/1000mm in diameter – … Continued
Ultra processed food (UPF) is the term used to describe foods where multiple ingredients have been combined to produce foods such as crisps, biscuits, mass produced breads and cakes, sugary drinks, cereals, pizzas, sausages, and other processed meat products. Foods are classified by the NOVA system which places foods into four categories, including ultra … Continued
Billions of tonnes of plastic cutlery are thrown away every year. Many are manufactured using chemical substances considered to have endocrine disrupting properties, including Bisphenol A which has been associated with a range of serious health risks, including cancer, changes in reproduction, and obesity. But what if you could eat your cutlery as well as … Continued
