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Microplastics found in food – awareness on plastic pollution in daily life.

Let’s talk about something tiny—but pretty terrifying: microplastics.


These are teeny plastic particles (think smaller than a sesame seed) that are showing up just about everywhere… our oceans, the air, our food—and yes, even inside our bodies. It sounds like a sci-fi story, but unfortunately this is very real.


Wait, we're eating plastic?

Sadly, yes! I recently came across a fascinating (and eye opening) episode of The Diary of a CEO podcast with Dr. William Li (the author of Eat to Beat Disease). 🎧 Listen to the full podcast here


During the interview, Dr. Li explained microplastics don’t just pollute our oceans—they're getting into us. Through plastic packaging, takeaway containers, water bottles, and even the tools we use to cook, these tiny particles find their way into our food and drink. Once inside the body, they don’t simply pass through. Microplastics can accumulate in our systems, disrupting hormones, contributing to inflammation, and impacting gut health—issues deeply connected to long-term disease and immune function. He also touched on the importance of choosing clean, whole foods and minimising plastic exposure wherever possible to protect our internal health.


Where they’ve actually found microplastics (brace yourself)

Science has confirmed that these tiny invaders aren’t just theory. They’ve been discovered in some pretty shocking places, including the brain, the placenta and shockingly for me as a mother - breastmilk!


It’s overwhelming, we know! But thankfully there are steps you can take to minimise exposure to microplastics to protect ourselves—and the planet.


So, what can you do about it?

Here are some simple swaps to reduce your exposure to microplastics without flipping your whole life upside down:

  1. Choose natural skincare

    Ditch scrubs with microbeads or plastic-based ingredients. Brands like UpCircle use coffee grounds and fruit stones—gentle on your skin and the planet.

  2. Say no to plastic packaging

    Wherever possible, go for glass, metal, or refillable options.

  3. Don’t cook or store hot food in plastic

    Heat + plastic = chemical leaching. Use glass containers, stainless steel tins, or beeswax wraps instead.

  4. Avoid bottled water

    Studies show it can contain more microplastics than tap water. Grab a filter and use a reusable bottle.

  5. Watch what you wear

    Synthetic clothes (like polyester) shed microplastic fibres every time you wash them. Look for organic cotton, bamboo, or hemp—and wash less often.

  6. Switch to Plastic-Free Cleaning That Works

    Most traditional cleaning sprays come in single-use plastic bottles and are full of harsh chemicals—some even leave behind microplastic residues. Instead, go for something cleaner and greener like OceanSaver.



Plastic-free OceanSaver dishwasher tablets – sustainable cleaning Malta

  1. Eat fresh, local, unpackaged food

    It’s not just better for your health—it usually means less plastic exposure. Shop local, hit the farmers’ markets, and bring your own bags.


You're not alone in this

We get it—it’s a lot. But taking small steps (like swapping your skincare, changing how you store leftovers, or refilling your pantry staples) really does make a difference. You're protecting your body, your family, and the planet. And that’s something to feel good about.


🎥 Want a quick look at how plastic sneaks into our everyday lives? Head over to our Instagram account to see how easy it is to start making swaps.


What Lurks in Your Cleaning Cabinet ?

The Good, the bad and the ugly : detergents

When it comes to keeping our homes clean, we rely heavily on detergents, but did you know that the seemingly innocent bottle of store-bought cleaner might be doing more harm than good? Beneath their floral scents and promises of sparkling results lies a cocktail of chemicals that can harm humans, pets, and the environment. Let’s break it down: here’s the good, the bad, and the downright ugly about detergents—and how you can clean up your act sustainably.


The Good: Why Detergents Exist in the First Place

Let’s give credit where it’s due: detergents revolutionized cleaning. They make short work of greasy pans, stubborn stains, and dirty laundry. Their surfactants, which reduce surface tension in water, allow grime to be lifted effortlessly. Without them, we’d still be scrubbing with soap and elbow grease.

But, as they say, “Not all that glitters is gold.” Let’s dive into the murkier waters of detergent use.


The Bad: Top 5 Concerns About Store-Bought Detergents


  1. Toxic Scents: That lavender-scented detergent isn’t as “natural” as you’d hope. Many scented detergents are packed with carcinogens disguised under the term “fragrance.” Worse, a University of Washington study revealed that these chemicals can be released into your home via dryer vents, polluting both indoor air and the environment.

  2. Surfactants That Suffocate: Surfactants like petroleum distillate and phenol make detergents effective but come with risks. These chemicals can inflame mucus membranes, irritate the lungs, and even increase the risk of asthma and cancer. Phenol, in particular, can seep into your skin and wreak havoc on your organs and nervous system.

  3. The Hidden Danger of 1,4-Dioxane: This unlisted ingredient is a byproduct of certain surfactant manufacturing processes. A known carcinogen, 1,4-dioxane is linked to tumors and is sneaky—you’ll never see it listed on a label. Look out for ingredients ending in “-eth,” like sodium laureth sulfate, to avoid it.

  4. Phthalates and Hormonal Havoc: Phthalates, often hidden under the term “fragrance,” extend the life of a product’s scent but wreak havoc on your endocrine system. They can lead to hormone imbalances, fertility issues, and even cancer.

  5. Bleach and NPEs: The Unseen Villains: Bleach, often masked by names like “optical brightener,” causes skin irritation and respiratory issues. Meanwhile, nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPEs), banned in the EU but still present in some detergents, disrupt hormones and harm fetal development.


The Ugly: Environmental Consequences

Every time you rinse out your mop bucket or do a load of laundry, harmful chemicals flow down the drain and into our waterways. Detergents can poison aquatic ecosystems, disrupt marine biodiversity, and contribute to the buildup of microplastics. For a small island nation like Malta, where the sea is central to our heritage, this impact hits particularly close to home.


Cleaning Up Your Act: Eco-Friendly Alternatives

  1. DIY Cleaning Solution: Why not take matters into your own hands? A simple mix of vinegar, sodium bicarbonate, and lemon juice makes an effective, all-purpose surface spray that’s safe, cheap, and chemical-free. Bonus: your home will smell as fresh as a Maltese lemon grove!

  2. Go Ocean-Friendly with OceanSaver: At ReRoot, we’re proud to stock OceanSaver—a brand committed to eco-friendly, non-toxic cleaning. Their range includes everything from dishwashing tablets to laundry solutions, all in sustainable packaging. With OceanSaver, you can keep your home spotless without harming the planet.


The Bottom Line

The next time you reach for a bottle of detergent, think twice. By switching to sustainable alternatives, you can protect your health, safeguard our environment, and embrace a cleaner, greener way of life.

What’s your favorite eco-friendly cleaning tip? Let us know in the comments or tag us in your sustainable cleaning snaps! 🌿✨






Shampoo bars in bathroom
Image source: "How to Store Shampoo bars: Tips for Home and Travelling", Zero Waste Store.com

As the blossoms of spring unfurl and Easter approaches, it's the perfect time to embrace renewal and change in all aspects of our lives, including our hair care routines. If you're striving for a more sustainable lifestyle while still prioritizing self-care and beauty, then you're in for a treat. Let's explore the top five benefits of incorporating shampoo bars and conditioner bars into your hair care regimen, aligning with our commitment to eco-friendly living and rejuvenation.



Shampoo bar coconut
Shampoo bar: Coconut moisturizing shampoo from

1.     Natural Ingredients for nourished locks: 

Say goodbye to harsh chemicals and hello to nature's bounty! Shampoo bars and conditioner bars are crafted with all-natural, organic ingredients that nourish and strengthen your hair from root to tip. Infused with botanical extracts, essential oils, and plant-based butters, these bars provide the vitamins and minerals your hair craves without any synthetic additives. Experience the rejuvenating power of nature with each wash, knowing that you're treating your hair to the best Mother Earth has to offer #winwin





Shampoo and Conditioner bars
Shampoo and Conditioner bars from Helemaal

2.     Plastic Free packaging for a Green tomorrow: One of the most significant benefits of shampoo bars and conditioner bars lies in their eco-friendly packaging. Unlike traditional liquid shampoos and conditioners housed in plastic bottles, these bars are typically packaged in minimal or plastic-free materials, reducing your carbon footprint with every purchase. By opting for bars over bottles, you're taking a proactive step towards reducing plastic waste and protecting our planet's precious ecosystems. Let's celebrate Easter by embracing sustainability and leaving a greener legacy for future generations.



Shampoo bar latering
Shampoo Lathering: Zero Waste MVMT

3. Concentrated Formulas for Long-Lasting Results: Did you know that one shampoo bar can last as long as five to seven bottles of liquid shampoo? That's right – the concentrated formulas of shampoo bars and conditioner bars mean you get more bang for your buck while minimizing waste. Say goodbye to half-empty bottles cluttering your shower shelf and hello to streamlined, clutter-free beauty routines. With their long-lasting efficacy, these bars prove that less truly is more – both for your hair and the environment.





Shampoo Nettles
All natural Nettle shampoo for dry and sensitive scalps

4. Chemical-Free Formulations for Healthier Hair and Planet:  Protect your precious locks and the planet simultaneously with shampoo bars and conditioner bars free from harsh chemicals like sulfates, parabens, and preservatives. Unlike conventional hair care products that strip away natural oils and leave residues behind, these gentle formulations cleanse and condition without compromising your hair's health or the environment's well-being. Let's prioritize purity and sustainability this Easter by choosing products that promote harmony between ourselves and nature




Shampoo bar convenience travel
Shampoo bars in travel tin: Your best travel buddy!

5. On-the-Go Convenience: Whether you're jetting off on a weekend getaway or simply seeking convenience in your daily routine, shampoo bars and conditioner bars offer unparalleled versatility. Compact and lightweight, these bars are the perfect travel companions, eliminating the need for bulky bottles and spill-prone liquids. Toss them in your gym bag, suitcase, or purse for effortless hair care wherever life takes you. With their on-the-go convenience, you can stay fresh and fabulous this Easter – no matter where the celebrations lead.





This Easter, let's embark on a journey of renewal and sustainability by embracing the transformative power of shampoo bars and conditioner bars. From their natural ingredients to their plastic-free packaging, these eco-friendly alternatives offer a holistic approach to hair care that nourishes both our locks and the planet. Join ReRoot in making the switch to a greener, more rejuvenating hair care routine – because beauty should never come at the expense of our planet's well-being. Happy Easter, and here's to a future filled with radiant, sustainable beauty!






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