New study finds microplastics in every UK beverage tested, with hot drinks showing higher levels
Heat accelerates microplastic release from packaging; cold drinks still contain particles, researchers say.
A University of Birmingham study tested 155 beverage samples collected from UK supermarkets and coffee shops and found microplastics in every drink. The researchers analyzed 31 beverage types, ranging from coffee and tea to juice and soft drinks, to assess how much plastic particles might be present in everyday beverages. The samples were filtered in a lab and analyzed under a microscope, and lead author Mohamed Abdallah described the ubiquity as alarming and said the findings indicate microplastics are present across a broad spectrum of drinks.
Hot beverages contained higher microplastic counts than cold ones. Hot tea prepared in disposable cups showed the highest concentrations, averaging 49 to 81 particles per liter. Iced tea contained 24 to 38 per liter. Hot coffee ranged from 29 to 57 per liter, while iced coffee ranged from 31 to 43 per liter. The team noted that hot tea in disposable cups averaged 22 particles per cup, compared with 14 per cup when brewed in a glass. The researchers emphasized that temperature and packaging appear to drive the differences in particle release.
Other beverages also contained microplastics, though counts were lower: fruit juice 19 to 41 particles per liter; energy drinks 14 to 36; soft drinks 13 to 21. Soft drinks packaged in aluminum cans had even fewer particles.
The researchers also surveyed more than 200 UK adults about their daily drinking habits. On average, women ingested about 1.7 microplastic particles per kilogram of body weight each day from drinks, while men ingested about 1.6. These estimates cover drinks only and do not account for other exposure routes.
Health context remains uncertain, but studies have found microplastics in blood, brains, kidneys, lungs, livers, placentas and other tissues. They can damage cells, disrupt gut bacteria and trigger inflammation, and they may carry chemicals such as heavy metals and hormone disruptors. The long-term health impact remains unclear, but the researchers emphasize potential risks and the need for further study. Abdallah told The Independent that there should be legislative action to limit human exposure to microplastics.
The findings add to growing concerns about microplastics in consumer products and the environment and highlight the need for ongoing research and policy measures to curb exposure.