Paper Coffee Cups Release 25,000 Microplastics in 15 Minutes, Study Warns
That warm cup of takeaway coffee might not be as harmless as it seems. Recent studies reveal that paper coffee cups lined with plastic can release up to 25,000 tiny microplastic particles into your drink within just 15 minutes. These invisible particles mix with your coffee, entering your body with every sip.
How Microplastics Enter Your Drink
The problem starts with the cup’s plastic lining. Manufacturers coat the inside with a thin layer of polyethylene to prevent leaks. However, when hot coffee or tea touches it, the layer begins to break down. As a result, thousands of microplastic fragments peel off and dissolve into the beverage. You can’t see or taste them, but they are still there, waiting to be consumed.
Scientists say these microplastics don’t just pass through the body. Instead, they can linger in the bloodstream, lungs, and even the placenta. This discovery raises serious concerns about how much plastic people unknowingly consume daily.
The Growing Call for Safer Alternatives
Because of these findings, many cafés and cities are rethinking their coffee culture. Some are switching to biodegradable cups made from plant-based materials, while others encourage reusable metal or glass mugs. These eco-friendly options help reduce plastic waste and protect public health.
Experts stress that small choices can make a big difference. Choosing a reusable cup, for example, can prevent thousands of microplastic particles from entering the environment. Every sip matters — for your health and the planet’s future.
