Drinking tea from bags and hot beverages from paper cups can significantly increase the intake of microplastics into the body. In Latvia, takeout drinks in paper cups - lined with plastic film on the inside - are very popular, as are tea bags.
A review of the harm caused by tea bags to health has been published in the journal Discover Applied Sciences (DAS). The study discusses plastic tea bags in the shape of pyramids. Researchers also mentioned the harm of disposable cups for takeout - Latvians often buy coffee and tea to go, but the issue is that paper cups are lined with a thin plastic film on the inside, and microplastics are released at liquid temperatures above 60 degrees.
According to the researchers, when in contact with boiling water, the plastic coating of paper cups and the materials of tea bags break down, releasing particles of polyethylene, nylon, PET, and other polymers, along with phthalates and traces of heavy metals.
High temperatures and shaking enhance the release of particles, and "pyramid" bags and plastic filters may release particularly high amounts of nanosized fragments. According to the studies compiled in the review, one cup brewed from a plastic bag can contain up to billions of microplastics and nanoplastics, while paper cups with polyethylene film also "shed" thousands of particles within just 10–15 minutes.
Potential risks include inflammatory reactions and endocrine disorders; however, the authors emphasize that this is a review of existing data, and standardized methodologies and long-term studies are needed for an accurate assessment of health impacts. Practical steps suggested include switching to reusable dishes, choosing loose leaf tea, and avoiding boiling water in disposable paper cups.
