# Microplastic risks in food storage

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/microplastic-risks-in-food-storage
> Updated: 2026-08-31T16:31:43.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2.

Experts have identified risks regarding the use of plastic containers for freezing and storing food. Research indicates that extreme temperature changes, such as moving items between a freezer and a warmer environment, can cause plastic to become brittle and release microplastics—particles smaller than five millimeters—into food.

Scientific studies show that microplastics have already been detected in human blood, lungs, the placenta, and breast milk. Investigations are ongoing regarding nanoplastics, which are even smaller and may be capable of crossing biological barriers within the organism. Frequent temperature fluctuations in plastic containers may accelerate the degradation process and increase contamination potential.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-31: Microplastics risk identified in food freezing practices

Experts warn that freezing food in plastic containers can cause them to release microplastics into food due to temperature-induced brittleness.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/microplastics-risk-identified-in-food-freezing-practices

### 2026-08-03: Freezer and Plastic Wrap: Foods to Never Store in Them

Freezing harms water‑rich produce, whole eggs, and soft dairy, while plastic wrap traps heat, moisture, and chemicals in hot leftovers, soft cheeses, butter, and herbs.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/freezer-and-plastic-wrap-foods-to-never-store-in-them

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Cite as: Microplastic risks in food storage. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/microplastic-risks-in-food-storage