Tea Bags Release Billions of Microplastics into Water: Study

Madrid, 29 Dec (ONA) --- A recent study by the Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB) has revealed the alarming release of micro- and nanoplastic (MNPL) particles from tea bags into water, raising concerns about potential health risks.

Published in Chemosphere, the study analyzed three types of tea bags and found that billions of plastic fragments are released per milliliter of water.

Tea bags made from polypropylene released the highest amount of particles, averaging 1.2 billion per milliliter, followed by cellulose and nylon-6 bags, which released 135 million and 8.18 million particles respectively.

Using advanced laser techniques, researchers identified the size of these particles, ranging from 136 to 244 nanometers, and their composition.

Tests showed that MNPL particles could penetrate human intestinal cells and reach the nucleus, potentially disrupting cellular functions.

The researchers warned that exposure to these particles might lead to health issues such as inflammation, genotoxicity, and long-term risks like cancer.

The findings underscore the need for stricter regulations on plastic use in food packaging.

Researchers called for urgent action to address MNPL contamination and its broader implications for ecosystems and human health.

---Ends/Thuraiya/KH