Summary

A new study from Spain’s Autonomous University of Barcelona reveals that tea bags made from nylon, polypropylene, and cellulose release billions of micro- and nanoplastic particles when steeped in boiling water.

These particles, which can enter human intestinal cells, may pose health risks, potentially affecting the digestive, respiratory, endocrine, and immune systems.

Researchers urge regulatory action to mitigate plastic contamination in food packaging.

Consumers are advised to use loose-leaf tea with stainless steel infusers or biodegradable tea bags to minimize exposure.

  • Porto881
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    715 hours ago

    Looks like the risk comes from boiling tea bags made of these materials. Cold steep chads keep winning

    • @[email protected]
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      1415 hours ago

      These “materials” included cellulose, which is just plant fiber.

      Are we really going to start calling plant fibers “bioplastics” now in an effort to scare people?

      • @[email protected]
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        714 hours ago

        Polymerized cellulose is by definition a biobased polymer, this isn’t anything new. The study doesn’t make any claims that polymerized cellulose is harmful. Calling them “plant fibers” is incorrect as they aren’t derived directly from a plant, like say, cotton. These are manufactured using cellulose.