What drink has the most microplastics?

Hot Tea May Be Serving More Than Just Flavor

It’s hard to beat a warm cup of tea on a chilly morning — soothing, fragrant, and comforting. But recent findings suggest your favorite brew might also be delivering an unwanted guest: microplastics.

According to new research, hot tea contains significantly more microplastics than its iced counterpart. On average, a liter of hot tea carries between 49 and 81 microplastic particles. That’s more than double the amount found in iced tea, which ranges from 24 to 38 particles per liter. The reason? Likely the brewing process itself.

When near-boiling water hits tea bags or even loose-leaf containers, it can accelerate the shedding of microplastics from packaging or filtration materials. Many commercial tea bags, though marketed as paper, are sealed with synthetic polymers to maintain strength during steeping. These materials don’t vanish — they break down into tiny fragments that end up in your cup.

Even tea sold in loose-leaf form isn’t entirely off the hook. Storage bags, processing equipment, and packaging liners often involve plastic components, which can contribute to contamination — especially when heat is involved.

While the long-term health effects of consuming microplastics are still being studied, early evidence suggests they can enter the bloodstream and accumulate in organs. With tea being one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world, even small amounts per cup can add up over time.

The takeaway? Be mindful of how your tea is packaged. Opting for plastic-free, compostable tea sachets or loose-leaf tea stored in non-plastic containers could reduce your exposure. And if you're brewing at home, consider using a stainless steel or glass infuser with bulk tea — a small change that might make a big difference.

Bottom line: That comforting steam rising from your mug might carry more than just aroma — it’s worth thinking about what else could be in your brew.