UAB research has characterized in detail how polymer-based commercial tea bags release millions of nanoplastics and microplastics when infused. The study shows for the first time the capacity of these particles to be absorbed by human intestinal cells, and are thus able to reach the bloodstream and spread throughout the body.

  • @[email protected]
    link
    fedilink
    1320 hours ago

    Is there a way to tell whether teabags use these materials? It’s not really something listed in the ingredients

    • @RustyHeater
      link
      12 hours ago

      Linked Source here. Sample 3 is a round teabag which is a distinct feature of Tetley tea. Although I’m sure other brands may use that design too.

    • @lemmy_outta_here
      link
      919 hours ago

      I have bad news: even “non-plastic” tea bags have plastic fibres woven into the paper/cloth. These fibres allow the material to be sealed with heat. Best to use loose leaf and a strainer.

      • @NotMyOldRedditName
        link
        2
        edit-2
        5 hours ago

        So my tea bags that have a little staple to keep it together might be okay?

        Edit: The other kind I have is the top folded over and the string tied through it, but no staple.

      • TipRing
        link
        English
        36 hours ago

        I drink Barry’s which say they are 100% plastic free and biodegradable, but now I wonder how to find out if that is true.

  • @[email protected]
    link
    fedilink
    2723 hours ago

    Lol my uncle bought me this set of nice teas all wrapped in little nylon pyramids. Threw that shit straight in the trash

  • @Uriel_Copy
    link
    381 day ago

    This is one I wish I hadn’t read 😮‍💨

  • Pirky
    link
    1424 hours ago

    I remember reading something like this about a decade ago. It’s why I much prefer loose leaf tea and use a metal sieve/strainer.

    • @bustAsh
      link
      6
      edit-2
      19 hours ago

      I have a French press. Think I’ll start brewing my tea in that now. Thanks

  • @Serinus
    link
    423 hours ago

    Well, I guess I better not throw out all my tea bags just before Christmas.

    “Oh. You got me… cancer. Thanks.”

  • @rickdg
    link
    324 hours ago

    Call me plastic-man 🤪