
The Baby Tribe
Should We Worry About Microplastics in Baby Bottles?
Headlines about babies swallowing millions of plastic particles can make an ordinary bottle feed feel like a parenting mistake. So what does the research actually tell us? In this episode of Baby Tribe Shorts, Afif and Anne explore microplastics in baby bottles, silicone teats and milk storage bags. They revisit the Trinity College Dublin study behind many of the headlines, discuss why measuring particles is surprisingly complicated, and explain the distinction between detecting exposure and demonstrating harm. They also separate microplastics from BPA, consider the practical drawbacks of glass bottles, and discuss why concerns about plastic should never undermine established advice on sterilisation and formula preparation. Along the way, Afif loses patience with Instagram fearmongering, Anne recalls a toddler licking a shoe, and a disagreement over millimetres becomes surprisingly competitive. An episode about feeding choices, scientific uncertainty and helping parents make decisions without unnecessary guilt.


