If you’re a tea-lover, it might shock you to learn that many tea bags contain plastic. This plastic may sometimes have negative health effects in the long term and also cause environmental problems.
Let’s learn more about plastic tea bags, and how to recognise and avoid them.
What types of tea bags contain plastic?
The following types of tea bags are primarily plastic-based:
- Pressed: For these tea bags, 20-30% plastic is woven into the edges of the paper and heat-pressed to seal it shut.
- Silken: Despite the name, these tea bags are made from plastic, not silk. These tend to be made from fossil-fuel-based nylon, which may take a long time to decompose.
- String-and-tag: These are usually secured by stitching/stapling rather than heat. Many brands use paper with plastic fiber to add strength.
Why are plastic tea bags bad?
Plastic tea bags are harmful because they release microplastics (officially defined as being less than 5mm in size) into the tea when steeped in hot water, which can be ingested and pose health risks.
Additionally, they contribute to environmental pollution as they are not biodegradable, leading to long-term plastic waste in landfills and oceans. The production and disposal of plastic tea bags also have a significant carbon footprint, exacerbating climate change.
Opting for plastic-free alternatives helps reduce these negative impacts on both our health and the environment.
How do I avoid plastic tea bags?
Avoiding plastic tea bags starts with reading labels and making informed choices. By understanding what materials are used in your tea bags, you can opt for more sustainable alternatives. Here are some practical tips to help you steer clear of plastic tea bags and make more eco-friendly choices in your daily tea rituals.
- Switch to a brand that offers plastic-free tea bags
Look out for brands that say their bags are 100% free. Some examples include Yorkshire Tea, Clipper Teas, and Qi Tea. - Use loose-leaf tea
Loose-leaf is easily the best option for those looking to go plastic-free. Most eco-stores sell loose-leaf tea in bulk. If that’s not possible, you can buy it in fully recyclable tins and cardboard boxes.
To make steeping easier, you can buy a tea ball infuser, get fillable filter bags to make your own tea bags, or use a French press.
Check out this list of 25 Plastic Free Tea Bags to help you find which ones are better for you and the environment.
