Is Your Tea Bag Brewing More Than Just Tea? The Microplastic Dilemma

Teatime is a moment of relaxation for many—but what if your tea bag is brewing more than just your favourite blend? In recent years, researchers have uncovered an unsettling truth: some tea bags contain microplastics. These tiny plastic particles are seeping into your cup, leaving you with more than just a warm beverage to sip on.

What Are Microplastics and How Do They End Up in Tea?

Microplastics are tiny pieces of plastic that are less than 5 millimetres in size. They can be created in two main ways: some are intentionally made, like the microbeads found in cosmetics, while others form when larger plastic items break down over time.

Many commercial tea bags are made from synthetic materials such as nylon, polyethylene, or PET (polyethylene terephthalate). When you steep your tea, the hot water causes these materials to break down, releasing thousands of microplastic particles into the brew. These particles are so small that they’re nearly impossible to spot, yet they’re present in the very drink you’re consuming.

What About PLA Tea Bags?

You might have seen tea bags labelled as “biodegradable” or “compostable” and assumed they were plastic-free. One material often used for these claims is PLA (polylactic acid), a plant-based plastic derived from corn starch or sugarcane. While PLA is technically biodegradable, it doesn’t break down as quickly in natural environments, particularly in landfills, and still poses a problem if it ends up in the oceans or waterways.

The key issue with PLA tea bags is that they still function as plastic within your teacup. When hot water comes into contact with these bags, microplastics can still be released, especially when the bags are exposed to high heat for long periods. PLA might be a step up from petroleum-based plastics, but it’s not the perfect solution to the microplastic dilemma.

Why Should You Care About Microplastics in Your Tea?

You might be wondering: What’s the big deal? After all, it’s just a tiny bit of plastic. But when it comes to microplastics, the potential risks are significant. Although research is still ongoing, scientists have raised concerns about the possible health effects of ingesting these tiny particles. Some studies suggest that microplastics could accumulate in the body, potentially carrying harmful toxins or disrupting our health in unknown ways.

Beyond personal health, there’s the environmental impact to consider. Microplastics in tea bags contribute to the growing problem of plastic pollution, particularly in our oceans. When these tiny particles are discarded or break down, they can harm wildlife and enter the food chain in ways we’re only beginning to understand.

How to Avoid Brewing Plastic with Your Tea

The good news is that you don’t have to give up tea to avoid microplastics. There are several easy ways to enjoy your tea without the added plastic:

• Choose Plastic-Free Tea Bags: Some brands now offer tea bags made from natural materials like paper, hemp, or silk. These biodegradable options won’t release microplastics into your drink, making them a safer and more sustainable choice.
• Switch to Loose Leaf Tea: For a truly plastic-free experience, opt for loose leaf tea. You can use a tea infuser or a reusable strainer, eliminating the need for a tea bag altogether.
• Be Wary of PLA: While PLA tea bags may seem like an eco-friendly option, they still contain plastic. Look for brands that specifically state they are plastic-free, and consider avoiding PLA if you want to fully eliminate microplastics from your tea.
• Check for Eco-Friendly Labels: When shopping for tea, look for labels that indicate the bags are plastic-free or made from compostable materials. These brands are committed to reducing plastic waste and are a safer choice for both you and the planet.

Conclusion

The next time you make a cup of tea, ask yourself: What’s really brewing in that bag? While tea should be a soothing experience, it’s clear that many tea bags are hiding more than just your favourite blend—they may be brewing microplastics too. By making small changes, like choosing plastic-free bags or loose-leaf tea, you can enjoy your tea without worrying about what else might be in the cup.

Table of tea bag manufacturers, disposal and sustainability properties:

Well done to Moral Fibres for providing this useful information on tea bags without plastic in the UK 2024.

Data in table according to research carried out by Moral Fibres in October 2024*