A recent study published in Chemosphere reveals that tea bags can release billions of plastic particles into your tea.
Researchers tested tea bags made of polypropylene (plastic), cellulose (paper) and plastic, and found significant contamination with microplastics and nanoplastics:
Polypropylene bags: 1.2 billion particles per milliliter.
Cellulose bags: 135 million particles per millilitre.
Nylon bags: 8.18 million particles per millilitre.
Microplastics absorbed by human cells
The study exposed microplastics to human intestinal cells, which absorbed the particles. Some even reach the nuclei of cells, raising concerns about potential health risks such as accumulation in tissues and circulation in the body. However, long-term health impacts remain unclear.
Other studies confirm the risks
Previous studies have found that plastic and polyethylene tea bags release billions of particles into the tea, and even biodegradable versions made from polylactic acid release millions of nanoplastics. These findings highlight the widespread problem of microplastic exposure.
How to reduce exposure To minimize your intake of microplastics from tea:
Choose loose tea with a stainless steel infuser or reusable filter.
Avoid disposable tea bags, including those made of "biodegradable" plastics. Use materials that do not contain plastic, such as glass food containers, and avoid food wrapped in plastic. Although plastics play a key role in food safety, researchers are advocating stricter regulation to reduce unnecessary exposure. | BGNES
