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.

  • @[email protected]
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    3013 hours ago

    When someone is getting laid and he drops a load in her, he’s probably injecting microplastics.

    Just a thought for next time you are in bed with someone.

    • Flying SquidM
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      1813 hours ago

      And if you don’t- the condom? Also releasing microplastics. That glass of water you have afterwards because you’re all hot and sweaty and thirsty? Also full of microplastics.

      • @[email protected]
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        1312 hours ago

        As long as you’re using latex/nitrile condoms you should be good as latex and nitrile aren’t plastics. Some of the alternatives for people with latex allergies can have plastic in them though.

        • @[email protected]
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          1113 hours ago

          “This stuff is awesome! We can make it into any shape we want, it’s cheap, and amazingly durable! MAKE ALL THE THINGS PLASTIC!”

          We never stood a chance.

          • @[email protected]
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            1112 hours ago

            When we had no clue, I mean yeah, sucks, but live and learn. But the fact that all of this evidence has emerged and not much has changed is what’s enraging.

            • @[email protected]
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              511 hours ago

              The manufacturers had a clue long before we did. Just like leaded gasoline. And fossil fuels in general. And cigarettes. And so on. Nothing changes until governments step in, which sends the “captains of industry” into tantrums like the spoiled pissbabies they are.

              That is even more enraging.

              • @[email protected]
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                10 hours ago

                cigarettes

                Speaking of, cigarette butts / discarded filters are a major source of microplastic pollution.