Microplastics, which are increasingly found in food and beverages, have become a serious threat to the environment and human health. A new study by the Department of Genetics and Microbiology at the University of Barcelona has found that even tea bags can be a source of nanoplastic pollution.
According to the publication Interesting Engineering , when brewing tea bags in hot water, a huge amount of nanoparticles is released. The researchers studied bags made of three materials:
- polypropylene , which released up to 1.2 billion particles per milliliter (average size – 136.7 nanometers);
- cellulose , which released 135 million particles per milliliter (average size – 244 nanometers);
- nylon-6 , which released 8.18 million particles per milliliter (average size – 138.4 nanometers).
Advanced techniques such as scanning and transmission electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering and infrared spectroscopy were used for the analysis.
For the first time, researchers have studied how micro- and nanoplastic particles interact with human intestinal cells. Experiments have shown that cells that produce mucus absorb the largest amount of these particles. In some cases, the plastic even penetrates the nucleus of the cell, where the genetic material is contained.
Alba Garcia, one of the authors of the study, emphasizes the importance of a deep understanding of this phenomenon:
"Intestinal mucus plays a key role in absorbing these pollutants. The long-term health effects of exposure to microplastics need to be investigated.”
Experts emphasize the need to create regulations aimed at reducing the use of plastic in food packaging. Particular attention should be paid to the development of standardized methods for testing plastic materials in contact with food.
The growing demand for convenient and ready-to-use products only exacerbates the problem. Therefore, it should be solved immediately, experts emphasize.
Tea bags, which are an everyday part of many kitchens, can pose a hidden threat to health. This study is another reminder of the need to reduce the use of plastic in everyday life and protect the environment and people's health.
