The Hidden Microplastic Threat in Tea Bags – A Smarter Choice for a Healthier, Sustainable Future

A warm cup of tea is a comforting ritual, but did you know that each sip could contain billions of microplastic (MP) particles? A recent study published in Chemosphere (2024) has revealed that many tea bags made from plastics such as nylon-6 (NY6) and polypropylene (PP) release microplastics and nanoplastics (NPLs) into hot water, posing potential health risks.

Microplastics in Tea: A Growing Concern

Researchers analyzed three common types of tea bags:

• Nylon-6 (NY6) bags – Purchased from Amazon, empty to ensure precise material analysis.
• Polypropylene (PP) bags – Ordered from AliExpress, also empty for controlled testing.
• Cellulose (CL) bags – Bought from a supermarket, containing green tea, but with unclear filter composition.

Simulating real-world brewing conditions, the study found:

• PP bags released the highest amount of microplastics—up to 1.2 billion particles per mL.
• NY6 bags shed approximately 8.2 million particles per mL.
• CL bags, despite appearing “natural,” still released around 135 million particles per mL.

These microplastic particles, measuring between 100 to 250 nm, are small enough to penetrate human gut cells.

Cellular studies on human intestinal models indicate that microplastics accumulate in mucus-secreting cells (HT29-MTX), weakening the gut’s protective barrier. The ingestion of microplastics can trigger inflammation, disrupt gut microbiota, and has been linked to digestive disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). These findings underscore the urgent need for safer tea bag alternatives.

Small Changes, Big Impact: Reducing Microplastic Exposure in Daily Life

Microplastics are not only present in tea but also in drinking water and everyday food. Despite their microscopic size, their long-term effects on human health cannot be ignored. Adopting mindful consumption habits is the first step toward protecting both ourselves and the environment.

• Opt for loose-leaf tea or plastic-free tea bags – Choose whole-leaf tea or tea bags made from biodegradable, unbleached materials.
• Check product sources – Support brands that commit to using safe, plastic-free tea bag materials.

BWT – The Safe Water Solution for Better Health

Beyond food, microplastics have also infiltrated our daily drinking water, raising serious health concerns. To ensure comprehensive protection, BWT’s advanced filtration systems effectively remove microplastics and harmful contaminants, delivering pure, safe water for your family.

• Intelligent filtration technology – Preserves essential minerals while eliminating microplastics and impurities, providing cleaner and healthier drinking water.
• Reducing plastic waste – Switching to a filtration system minimizes single-use plastic bottles, one of the largest sources of plastic pollution today.

A Sustainable Future Starts with Your Choices

Every small action contributes to a larger change. By choosing sustainable solutions like BWT’s filtration system, you not only improve your quality of life but also help protect the planet. Start today—for your health, for future generations, and for a cleaner, greener world.

Source: VnExpress, Chemosphere