Microplastic menace: Your daily brew may be at risk
An ordinary cup of tea may hold more than just an aromatic brew. New research conducted by Spanish scientists reveals that popular tea bags can be a significant source of microplastics.
Tea bags are quick, convenient, and available everywhere. They seem like the perfect choice for cold mornings and relaxation after work. But are they really safe? Scientists from the University of Barcelona decided to investigate what happens to the tea bag material when it comes into contact with hot water. It turns out that tea bags, when exposed to high temperatures, release large amounts of plastic particles into the brew.
This is how boiling water affects tea bags
Whether you choose black, herbal, green, or fruit tea, the bag can be the source of the problem. Researchers tested different materials from which tea packaging is made: nylon, polypropylene, and cellulose. In each case, the release of microplastics was observed. Differences appeared only in the number and size of the particles.
Moreover, their presence was identified in the cells of the intestinal epithelium, especially where the cells produce mucus. These cells absorbed the most microplastics and nanoplastics, suggesting that the body may easily take in these pollutants.
Microplastics can affect the entire body
Although the effects of microplastics in the body are still being studied, it is already known that they can have a negative impact on humans - impacting hormonal, immune, and even reproductive systems. Particles can move through the body and affect the functioning of cells, making the tea bag a potential source of risk. If you want to reduce contact with plastic, consider drinking loose-leaf tea and brewing it in a stainless steel infuser.
