Microplastics in Tea: Why Loose Leaf is the Better Choice

In recent years, conversations around microplastics have become hard to ignore. From oceans and soil to the food we eat, microplastics are turning up in surprising places — including in something as comforting as your daily cup of tea.

What Are Microplastics?

Microplastics are tiny plastic particles, less than 5 mm in size, that result from the breakdown of larger plastics or are produced intentionally for industrial use. The concern with these particles is that they don’t biodegrade, they accumulate in the environment, and increasingly, they’re being found in the human body.

Microplastics in Tea Bags

Studies have shown that some plastic-based tea bags release billions of microplastic and nanoplastic particles when steeped in hot water. That’s right — the very process of brewing a comforting cup of tea can leach microscopic plastics into your drink. While the long-term health effects of ingesting microplastics are still being studied, researchers worry about potential impacts on digestion, immunity, and overall health.

Why Loose Leaf Tea is Different

Loose leaf tea, especially when purchased in bulk or packaged sustainably, offers a safer and cleaner alternative:

• No hidden plastics: Loose leaf teas aren’t sealed in plastic-based bags, which means no risk of plastic leaching into your cup.

• Better flavour and quality: Whole leaves and botanicals steep more fully, offering richer taste and more nutrients.

• Eco-friendly: Using a reusable infuser or compostable paper filter cuts down on waste and reduces plastic pollution.

At Just the Tea, our organic loose leaf blends are carefully sourced and packaged with sustainability in mind — giving you peace of mind that your wellness ritual is free from unwanted plastics.

Tips for a Plastic-Free Tea Experience

• Choose loose leaf tea over plastic-based tea bags.

• Use stainless steel, glass, or compostable filters/infusers.

• Store tea in reusable tins or glass jars instead of plastic bags.

The Bottom Line

Tea should be about comfort, flavour, and wellness — not hidden plastics. By choosing loose leaf teas, you’re making a choice that’s better for your health and better for the planet.

So the next time you steep your favourite blend, you can truly Sip into Wellness knowing your cup is clean, natural, and nourishing.