The presence of microscopic plastic particles in tea infusions has become a topic of increasing concern. This arises primarily from the composition of certain tea bags, which may utilize polypropylene, a type of plastic, to seal the bag and prevent it from falling apart. When hot water is introduced, these plastics can degrade and release microplastics into the beverage. Addressing this issue involves understanding tea bag materials and making informed choices to minimize potential exposure.
Reducing the ingestion of these particles is beneficial for overall well-being, as the long-term effects of microplastic consumption are still under investigation. While definitive health consequences remain unclear, erring on the side of caution is prudent. Historically, tea was prepared using loose leaves, a practice that inherently avoids the issue of plastic contamination. A return to this method, or the adoption of tea bags made from alternative materials, can effectively eliminate this source of microplastics.
