Jan 16 2025
BARCELONA: A groundbreaking study by Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB) has revealed alarming levels of microplastics released by polymer-based tea bags during brewing. The research highlights significant health implications, as these nano and microplastics can be absorbed by human intestinal cells, potentially entering the bloodstream and spreading throughout the body.
The study examined tea bags made from nylon-6, polypropylene, and cellulose. It found that brewing tea with these materials releases billions of microscopic plastic particles into the beverage. Among the tested materials, polypropylene released the highest amount, approximately 1.2 billion particles per millilitre, with an average particle size of 136.7 nanometres. Cellulose followed, releasing 135 million particles per millilitre with a slightly larger average size of 244 nanometres. Nylon-6 released 8.18 million particles per millilitre, averaging 138.4 nanometres in size.
This marks the first evidence of these tiny particles being absorbed by human intestinal cells, raising concerns about their ability to enter the circulatory system and affect various organs. The findings suggest that consuming tea brewed in polymer-based bags may expose individuals to significant quantities of nano and microplastics over time.
Researchers emphasised the need for increased awareness about the potential health risks associated with polymer-based tea bags. They urged manufacturers to explore safer, eco-friendly alternatives for tea packaging to reduce the risk of plastic contamination.
These findings contribute to the growing body of research on microplastics’ impact on human health, raising questions about long-term exposure to plastic particles through everyday items like tea bags. For consumers, the study underscores the importance of choosing tea products packaged in non-plastic materials.
