Research reveals presence of microplastics in tea... with luxury brands found to be the primary offenders
Microplastics Discovered in Popular Drinks, Including Tea
A recent study published in the journal Science of the Total Environment has found traces of microplastics in a variety of popular drinks, including tea. The study, which tested 31 drinks from UK brands, discovered that hot tea had the highest average content of microplastics, with 60 microplastics per litre, which is three times as much as soft drinks.
The synthetic particles, mostly fragments between 10 micrometers and 5 millimeters, are persistent environmental contaminants that can carry toxic chemicals and enter the human body through ingestion. According to the researchers, the heat seems to increase microplastic release, potentially from plastic tea bags or packaging materials, resulting in higher microplastic loads compared to cold drinks.
Health Risks Associated with Microplastic Ingestion
The study highlights the potential health risks associated with microplastic contamination in tea. Microplastics contain toxic additives linked to heart problems and may worsen existing health conditions. They are also associated with male infertility, potentially affecting testosterone and sperm production over time. Additional health concerns include respiratory problems, inflammatory diseases, immune disorders, and potential connections to cancer.
No Specific Brand Rankings
While the study found that the most expensive teabag brand showed the highest concentrations of microplastics, no specific brands were named in the summarized results. A related study in Iran identified polyethylene terephthalate (PET) from plastic bottles as a major source of microplastics in soft drinks, but no brands with the highest contamination were specified.
Reducing Exposure
To reduce exposure to microplastics, the study recommends minimizing consumption of beverages packaged in plastic (especially hot drinks), using glass or stainless-steel containers, and reducing overall plastic use in daily life. Although it is impossible to avoid all microplastic exposure, these steps help lower ingestion risks and environmental plastic waste.
Implications and Recommendations
The study underscores the need for improved packaging materials and greater consumer awareness about microplastic contamination in drinks, especially hot beverages like tea. Dr Tim Bond, of the Tea Advisory Panel, stated that the jury is still out on the impact of microplastics, as they are everywhere, including in the air we breathe, so they can't be fully avoided. However, preparing tea in a glass cup decreased the risk of microplastic contamination.
Research has suggested that an accumulation in the body could be linked to hormone issues, weight gain, and some cancers. Despite the potential health risks, the World Health Organisation says there is no convincing evidence of health effects in humans. The microplastics are believed to come from the teabags, specifically from the plastic polypropylene used to seal them.
In conclusion, the study reveals that microplastics are present in both hot and cold drinks, with hot beverages like tea showing higher concentrations due to heat-induced leaching from plastics. Consumers are advised to be aware of the potential health risks and take steps to reduce their exposure to microplastics, such as using alternatives to plastic packaging and preparing hot drinks in glass or stainless-steel containers.
References:
- Microplastics in beverages: a review
- Microplastics in Tea: A Comprehensive Review
- Microplastic contamination in food: a review
- Microplastics in the human body: A review
- The study in the journal Science of the Total Environment warns about potential health risks associated with microplastic ingestion in drinks, particularly in hot beverages like tea.
- The study suggests that microplastics in tea may contain toxic additives linked to heart problems and could potentially worsen existing health conditions, as well as possibly contributing to male infertility, respiratory problems, inflammatory diseases, immune disorders, and potential connections to cancer.
- To help lower the risk of microplastic exposure, the study recommends minimizing consumption of beverages packaged in plastic (especially hot drinks), using glass or stainless-steel containers, and reducing overall plastic use in daily life.
