08/10/2025
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Hot Drinks in Paper Cups Unleash Microplastics, Study Warns
New research confirms that disposable paper cups with plastic linings—commonly used for coffee or tea—release significant amounts of microplastics and harmful chemicals into hot beverages.
A study by the Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur found that when filled with water at 90°C (194°F), these cups shed up to 10-100 microplastic particles per milliliter within 15 minutes.
The polyethylene or polylactic acid linings, meant to prevent leaks, break down under heat, leaching microplastics and additives like bisphenol A (BPA) into your drink.
The study, published in the Journal of Hazardous Materials, tested 70 brands and noted higher releases with prolonged contact or hotter liquids—typical for takeout coffee. These tiny plastics, less than 5mm, pose potential health risks, from inflammation to hormone disruption, though long-term human impact data is still emerging. Reusing cups worsened leaching, as wear increased lining degradation.
Experts suggest switching to ceramic mugs or biodegradable alternatives, though many "compostable" options still contain plastic linings.
Simple fixes like letting drinks cool slightly before sipping could cut exposure. It’s a wake-up call for the $20 billion disposable cup industry—your morning brew might come with an unwanted side of plastic. Will you ditch the cup? Share your switch below!
