A new study from the University of Barcelona (UAB) has revealed that many popular tea bags contain plastic materials that 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.

Plastic waste pollution represents a critical environmental challenge with increasing implications for the well-being and health of future generations. Food packaging is a major source of micro and nanoplastic (MNPLs) contamination and inhalation and ingestion is the main route of human exposure.

The (UAB) study focused on tea bags made from synthetic fibres like nylon and PET. When steeped in hot water, these tea bags break down, releasing small plastic particles into a cup of tea. While the long-term health effects of consuming microplastics remain uncertain, the environmental consequences are clear: these materials contribute to the growing problem of plastic pollution in our oceans and landfills.

As well as nylon and PET, many mass market tea brands use paper reinforced with plastic, which is heated to seal the tea bag. Known as ES non-woven filter paper, it contains Ethylene-Propylene plastic.

As the public becomes increasingly aware of the environmental toll of single-use plastics, many consumers are looking for more sustainable alternatives.

Hampstead Tea, one of the first brands to adopt plastic-free tea bags, has long championed the importance of sustainability in the tea industry.

Kiran Tawadey (pictured), the founder of Hampstead Tea said: “15 years ago, there were no alternatives. So, we bought a machine from Italy to the UK which could fold and stitch paper to make a tea bag, rather than using plastic and glue. Our tea bags are 100% plastic-free, unbleached and even the cotton string is organic. The idea of drinking microplastics is just so off putting, and no one needs to know about your tea break in one hundred years time.”

Hampstead Tea’s commitment to sustainability extends well beyond its packaging. The company partners directly with biodynamic tea gardens that use zero chemical inputs. Its range of black, green and herbal teas are certified organic and Demeter.

With growing concerns about the environmental damage caused by plastic waste, Hampstead Tea is urging other companies in the tea industry eliminate plastic from their tea bags. In this way, it says, the entire tea industry can make a meaningful contribution to reducing plastic pollution.