Tag: Sustainable alternatives

Over 50% of all supermarket products, from baked goods to cosmetics, contain palm oil, yet many consumers are unaware of the significant health and environmental risks associated with it. The reasons to avoid this ubiquitous ingredient extend far beyond its low cost, encompassing serious concerns for both human well-being and the planet's biodiversity.

In a recent pilot study by UCLA engineers, it was found that chewing a single gram of gum can release an average of 100 microplastic particles into saliva. This revelation exposes a long-hidden truth about the composition of many conventional gums and challenges consumers to reconsider their choice of chewing products.

According to a 2025 pilot study, chewing a single piece of conventional gum can release up to 3,000 microplastic particles into your saliva. For health-conscious consumers, knowing which gum does not have microplastics is essential for making a cleaner, more sustainable choice.

Petroleum jelly, a common petroleum-based product, was first discovered in 1859 by Robert Chesebrough as a residue on oil rigs. While derived from crude oil, a fossil fuel, the question of whether its many derivatives are considered vegan remains complex and depends heavily on a person's individual ethical framework.

Every year, chewing gum accounts for over 250,000 tons of waste globally, with a large portion ending up as street litter. So, is chewing gum a waste, or does it offer tangible benefits that justify its existence? The answer is more complex than a simple yes or no, balancing personal perks against significant environmental and health concerns.

A 2025 study revealed that microplastics found in blood vessels are linked to an increased risk of heart attack and stroke, underscoring why it's important to consider if it is unhealthy to eat with plastic utensils. While convenient, plastic cutlery can degrade when exposed to heat, oil, or acid, shedding tiny particles and chemicals into your food.

According to the Vegan Society, veganism is a lifestyle that seeks to exclude all forms of exploitation of, and cruelty to, animals. This principle often raises questions about everyday household items, leading many to ask: can vegans use sponges?

While many edible straws are made from naturally gluten-free ingredients like rice or cornstarch, others can contain wheat-based components. This can be a major concern for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities, who must carefully verify the ingredients before use. So, do edible straws have gluten? The answer depends entirely on the brand and manufacturing process.