Study warns: These types of tea bags are harmfu

In a new development that indicates the extent of the spread of microplastics in our daily lives, a recent study conducted by researchers from the Autonomous University of Barcelona in Spain revealed that tea bags may release billions of micro and nanoplastic particles (MNPL) in every milliliter of water in which they are immersed.

Micro and nanoplastics are suspected of disrupting normal cellular processes and increasing the likelihood of infection. The presence of plastic in the digestive system has also been linked to diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease.

As plastic continues to be used in food packaging, researchers have stressed the need for scientific and regulatory strategies to ensure food safety and protect consumers.

According to the study published in the journal Chemosphere, tea bags made from materials such as polypropylene, cellulose and nylon show varying rates of release of plastic particles into the water.

Polypropylene bags, the most common, released about 1.2 billion plastic particles per milliliter, with an average size of 136.7 nanometers.

Cellulose bags released about 135 million particles with an average size of 244 nanometers, while nylon bags released 8.18 million particles with an average size of 138.4 nanometers.

Possible health effects

The study not only assessed the amounts of particles, but also determined how these particles interact with human gut cells. The researchers found that plastic particles can penetrate mucosal cells and reach the cell nucleus, a discovery that raises serious concerns about their impact on human health.

The researchers explained in the study that "the chemical composition of microplastics greatly affects biological interactions, leading to different targeting of organs and tissues, and may cause plastic accumulation, toxicity, immune responses, and long-term effects such as genotoxicity and carcinogenicity."

Amid growing concerns about the impact of microplastics, the research team called for standardization of plastic use in food packaging to protect public health. They pointed out that increasing evidence confirms that plastic particles may pose a threat to both ecosystems and human health.

The study stressed the importance of developing policies aimed at reducing the use of plastic in food packaging, and the need to focus on scientific research to understand the long-term health effects of these particles.

While research continues to uncover the dimensions of this problem, consumers are advised to consider alternative options such as using tea bags made from paper that is not treated with plastic or resorting to loose tea, as a small step to reduce exposure to microplastics.

Skynews - Published on 2-JANUARY2025