Hot Water May Release Microplastics and Potentially Harmful Chemicals
Advanced Laser-Assisted Surgical Treatment Available at iUKD
In today’s world, avoiding exposure to microplastics has become increasingly difficult. From agricultural land to drinking water sources, microplastics have been detected almost everywhere. Their presence in food and beverages is also raising concerns about potential exposure through our daily diet. Interestingly, certain everyday food preparation practices may further increase our exposure to these tiny plastic particles. One such example is the use of tea bags.
Although many tea bags are made from cellulose-based materials, some brands use plastic mesh or other synthetic polymers in their manufacturing. When exposed to hot water, these materials may release tiny plastic particles into the beverage. Research has indicated that plastic tea bags can release microplastics and nanoplastics, along with plastic-related chemical compounds such as phthalate esters and bisphenols (BPA). These chemicals are commonly associated with improving the flexibility, durability and heat resistance of plastic materials.
Some studies have reported that steeping a tea bag in hot water can release billions of microscopic plastic particles. A recent study published in the journal npj Science of Food examined four different brands of plastic tea bags. The researchers analysed the release of microplastics, identified the types of particles present and assessed the levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and bisphenol A (BPA) associated with the prepared tea.
The study also compared tea prepared using plastic tea bags with loose-leaf tea. The analysis found approximately 146 to 1,178 microplastic particles per kilogram of loose-leaf tea. This translates to an estimated 0.3 to 2.4 particles in every two grams of tea leaves. The findings suggest that loose-leaf tea may contain a considerably lower concentration of microplastics compared with tea prepared using plastic tea bags.
The researchers also identified a mixture of different polymers in loose-leaf tea. Possible sources included the use of plastic sacks and binding materials in agricultural practices, as well as the accumulation of airborne dust particles on tea leaves. Such dust may contain fibres of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyamide (PA).
Furthermore, during tea processing, tea leaves come into close contact with various types of plastic-based equipment, including loading machinery, conveyor belts and rolling stations. These mechanical interactions may facilitate the transfer of microplastic particles or plasticisers from the equipment onto the surface of tea leaves.
Therefore, choosing plastic-free or cellulose-based tea bags, opting for loose-leaf tea whenever possible and limiting the use of plastic materials that come into contact with food may help reduce everyday exposure to microplastics.
It is important to note that iUKD, recognised as one of the leading super-speciality kidney hospitals in Northeast India and the fifth such hospital in India, provides advanced medical care for a wide range of kidney and urological conditions.
The hospital offers treatment for kidney stones, prostate disorders, kidney failure, urinary problems in men and women, and urological cancers, including cancers of the kidney, urinary bladder, genital organs, testicles and prostate. It also provides treatment for various sexual health-related problems affecting both men and women.
At iUKD, patients have access to experienced urologists and nephrologists throughout the week. A team of specialist urologists is available 24 hours a day to provide medical assistance. The hospital is dedicated exclusively to the diagnosis and treatment of kidney-related and urological disorders.
iUKD has also established a significant presence in the field of urological treatment by introducing urological robotic surgery services in Assam and the Northeast. In addition, the hospital offers advanced laser-assisted surgical procedures for various urological conditions, ensuring access to modern treatment technologies.
The hospital functions under the guidance of Dr. Arup Kumar Nath, Managing Director and Chief Urology Specialist of iUKD, widely recognised as the ‘Laserman of India’. Under his leadership, a dedicated team of experienced urologists provides continuous medical care to patients. A specialised team of nephrologists also delivers services throughout the week.
Anyone experiencing kidney-related or urinary problems can contact Kidney Hospital iUKD for expert consultation and advanced medical care.
Contact Numbers: 8011501833, 9864104444
Hospital Address: Kidney Hospital iUKD, Institute of Urology and Kidney Diseases, Nazirakhat, Sonapur, Guwahati, Assam – 782402.