From Tea to Toxins: Microplastics Linked to Health Concerns
— December 29, 2024
SAN FRANCISCO (AIA) Microplastics in tea bags could pose serious health risks, including cancer and infertility, according to a new study. Researchers and health experts are urging further investigation into the effects of microplastics on human health.
A team from the University of California, San Francisco, examined microplastic release from three widely-used types of tea bags. Their findings, published in Chemosphere, revealed that a single tea bag can release billions of microplastic particles, raising concerns over long-term health implications.
The study found that microplastics may alter the colon’s structure, increasing the risk of colon cancer. Additionally, exposure to microplastics has been linked to fertility issues, including damage to sperm and reduced motility, potentially affecting reproductive health.
Maria Westerbos, co-founder of the Plastic Health Council, described the findings as alarming. “Time and time again, scientists are revealing the dangerous effects of plastics on human health. There can be no further doubt,” she said.
Experts are calling for urgent policy action to address microplastic contamination and ensure food safety. With plastic use in food packaging continuing to grow, researchers stress the need for stronger regulations and more scientific studies to understand and mitigate the risks.
Policymakers and international organisations are being urged to prioritise consumer safety by addressing the challenges posed by microplastic pollution, which continues to infiltrate food and drink products globally.
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