Disposable Paper and Plastic Cup: Whether it's the rainy season or any other time of year, a cup of tea can brighten anyone's day. Drinking tea often helps start the day on a positive note. However, you may have noticed that tea is increasingly served in disposable cups. If you or those around you consume tea from these cups, it's important to be cautious. A recent study has indicated that disposable cups can pose health risks.
What the research has revealed
A study has examined the risks associated with disposable cups. In a 2021 study conducted by IIT Kharagpur, it was found that these cups can be harmful. The research revealed that when tea or coffee at temperatures between 85 to 90 degrees Celsius is poured into a paper or plastic cup, about 25,000 microplastic particles can dissolve into the drink within just 15 minutes.
This specific study was led by Dr. Sudha Goyal. The findings indicate that if you drink tea or coffee from such cups three times a day, you could be ingesting around 75,000 microplastic particles daily. Recently, Tejaswini Anantkumar, Chairperson of IIEST, shared this information on social media and advised everyone to carry their own reusable cups while traveling.
Are microplastics dangerous?
Microplastics are very small plastic pieces, which are not visible to our eyes, but can cause great harm by entering the body. The coating of the plastic cups contains many harmful chemicals.
What problems can arise
Hormonal imbalance
Reproductive problems in men and women
Hindering growth of children
Obesity
Risk of cancer
Damage to brain and nervous system
Weakness of immune system
What to do?
It is said that the easiest solution is to carry your own steel or glass cup, especially when you plan to drink hot beverages outside. Drinking tea in glass or steel is beneficial for health. Drinking tea in disposable cups should be avoided.