Food: Personal and planetary health | Tea bags and plastics

How to address the problem.Which tea bags do not contain plastic?

Did you know that your daily cup of tea could be steeped in plastic? Are you wondering which product is sustainable?

Plastic-free teabags were one of the first topics discussed by the founders of MANA two years' ago. Now, there are options for consumers who prefer tea bags to loose-leaf tea. However, researchers have also discovered that plastic accumulates in our brains and bodies, which may cause harmful effects.

Here's the latest information about the topic.

Many conventional tea bags contain polypropylene, a plastic used to seal the bag and maintain its shape. However, when exposed to boiling water, these plastic-infused tea bags can release billions of microplastics and nano plastics into your drink. A study found that brewing a single plastic tea bag at 95°C releases 11.6 billion microplastics and 3.1 billion nano plastics (Hernandez et al., 2019).

This not only raises health concerns, but also creates environmental waste as plastic-based tea bags do not fully decompose in landfills (Thompson & Moore, 2021).

Both North America and Australia offer unique native teas with deep Indigenous roots, alongside sustainable, organic tea options. Many of these native teas are available from Indigenous cooperatives, wildcrafters and ethical herb suppliers, ensuring sustainable sourcing while supporting local communities.

What's the solution?

For a healthier body and planet, switching to plastic-free tea bags or, even better, loose-leaf tea is a simple and effective change (Williams & Patel, 2023).

Why is this Important? Microplastics and human

Health.

Recent research has shown that microplastics accumulate in the human body, particularly in the brain, and in fish and other animals.

Microplastics and the human brain

Researchers from the University of New Mexico detected microplastics in human brain tissue, showing a 50% increase in accumulation over the past eight years (University of New Mexico, 2025). Individuals diagnosed with dementia were found to have microplastic levels up to six times higher than those without neurodegenerative conditions (The Guardian, 2025). The most commonly detected plastic was polyethylene, widely used in packaging and food containers (HSC Newsroom, 2025).

Health implications

Visulization of putative plastics in the brain.

From: Bioaccumulation of microplastics in decedent human brains (Nihart, 2025)

·         Neurological health. The ability of microplastics to cross the blood-brain barrier raises concerns about links to neurodegenerative diseases (The Guardian, 2025). While causality has not been confirmed, the correlation between high microplastic levels and dementia is alarming.

·         Cardiovascular health. Studies suggest that microplastic exposure increases the risk of heart disease, inflammation, and stroke (World Economic Forum, 2025).

·         Endocrine disruption. Plastics such as BPA and phthalates disrupt hormones and have been linked to reproductive health issues[1]  (Wikipedia, 2025).

[1] Plastics containing chemicals such as Bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates have been identified as endocrine disruptors, interfering with hormonal functions and posing significant reproductive health risks. BPA exposure has been linked to adverse effects on female fertility, including diminished ovarian reserve and disrupted oocyte maturation (Machtinger et al., 2013). Additionally, higher urinary BPA levels have been associated with lower sperm concentration and motility in men (Meeker et al., 2010). Similarly, phthalate exposure has been linked to reproductive disorders in women, with associations found between phthalate metabolites and increased risks of endometriosis and uterine leiomyomata (Vagi et al., 2014). Furthermore, exposure to phthalates has been associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, including increased miscarriage rates and lower birth weights (Jukic et al., 2016). Both BPA and phthalates are recognised endocrine disruptors that interfere with hormonal balance, affecting reproductive health (National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences [NIEHS], 2022). These findings underscore the need for continued research and regulatory measures to mitigate exposure to these chemicals.

Reducing exposure to microplastics

1.      Dietary changes. Research shows that antioxidants called anthocyanins in fruits, vegetables and flowers may counteract the effects of microplastics and improve reproductive health in animal studies (The Guardian, 2025)[1] .

2.      Household adjustments. Use glass, stainless steel or ceramic containers. Avoid heating food in plastic containers to minimise chemical leaching (Very well Health, 2025). A number of peer-reviewed studies have considered this, which you should check if this is a concern for you (Groh, 2020; Yang, 2011; Kiyataka, 2014)

3.      Advocacy and policy. Support regulations that reduce plastic waste and advocate for biodegradable alternatives.

Now, we will only focus on teabags. And in the next article of MANA News, we will cover plastics in water and what you can do about this.

[2] A range of more recent may support this further:

​Recent peer-reviewed studies have explored the potential protective effects of anthocyanins—antioxidants found in fruits, vegetables, and flowers—against microplastic-induced reproductive toxicity in animal models.​

Protective Role of Anthocyanins:

Male Reproductive Health: Anthocyanins have been shown to improve sperm quality by reducing oxidative stress in the testes. For instance, cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (C3G), a specific anthocyanin, improved sperm parameters and protected testicular integrity in mice exposed to microplastics (Zhang et al., 2023).​

Female Reproductive Health: Anthocyanins have demonstrated potential in safeguarding ovarian function. Animal studies have shown that these compounds can mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation in ovarian tissues, preserving ovarian reserve and function (Balali et al., 2024).​

Microplastics and Reproductive Toxicity:

Female Reproductive Health: Exposure to micro/nanoplastics has been linked to adverse effects on female reproductive health, including diminished ovarian reserve, increased oxidative stress, and hormonal imbalances. These particles can accumulate in reproductive tissues, leading to inflammation and potential fertility issues (Balali et al., 2024).​

Additional Evidence:

Antioxidant Mitigation: A study suggests that anthocyanins may reduce reproductive damage caused by microplastics. The research indicates that these antioxidants could enhance sperm count, motility, and overall sperm integrity in animal models exposed to microplastics (Hu et al., 2023).

What's the solution?

For a healthier body and planet, switching to plastic-free tea bags or, even better, loose-leaf tea is a simple and effective change (Williams & Patel, 2023).

Prefer tea Bags? Here are some plastic-free options

If you prefer the convenience of tea bags but want to avoid plastic, look for brands that use biodegradable, compostable materials. Many high-quality organic brands now use plant-based or compostable bags, ensuring a sustainable cup of tea.

Alternative materials for plastic-free tea bags

If you're looking for plastic-free tea bags, check for these materials instead:

🌱 Corn Starch (PLA) – A plant-based biodegradable polymer.
🌱 Paper – Heat-sealed using a food-safe adhesive.
🌱 Silk – Reusable but may still contain plastic drawstrings.
🌱 Abaca – A banana plant fiber that is biodegradable and tree-free.
🌱 Cotton – Organic, unbleached, and free from dyes or chemicals.

Sustainable and healthy leaf teas in North America and Australia

All healthy teas must be checked carefully as some may affect individuals differently, just as some medications do. Just because it's natural or labelled 'healthy' does not mean it is right for you.

🌿 NORTH AMERICA

🌱 Sustainable & Health-Promoting Teas

Good tea infusers act just like teabags!

1. Organic green tea (The US and Canada). Antioxidant-rich and supports metabolism and brain health.

o   Where to find. Minto Island Tea (Oregon), Charleston Tea Garden (South Carolina) and Mountain Rose Herbs (Oregon).

2. Chaga mushroom tea. Adaptogenic[1] and supports immunity and inflammation response.

o   Where to find. Wild-harvested in Canada and northern US (sold by Laughing Lichen and Harmonic Arts).

3. Peppermint tea. Aids digestion, cooling and is refreshing.

o   Where to find. Grown in Oregon and widely available in organic blends.

4. Chamomile tea. Calming, supports sleep and relaxation.

o   Where to find. Sourced from small farms in the US and Canada, and available from Traditional Medicinals and Mountain Rose Herbs.

5. Nettle leaf tea. Detoxifying and rich in minerals.

o   Where to find. Organically cultivated in North America, sold by Oregon's Wild Harvest and Frontier Co-op.

[1] Adaptogenic refers to substances, typically herbs or natural compounds, that help the body adapt to stress and restore balance (homeostasis). Adaptogens support the body's resilience to physical, emotional, and environmental stressors by regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and modulating the stress response.

6. Tulsi (holy basil) tea. Adaptogenic and stress-relieving. Where to find. Organic India in Canada and the US.

🍃 Native Teas

1. Labrador tea (Rhododendron groenlandicum). Antioxidant-rich and supports respiratory health.

o   Where to find: Indigenous to Canada and Northern US and available through Indigenous co-ops, Laughing Lichen and Northern Delights.

2. Yaupon tea (Ilex vomitoria). The only naturally caffeinated plant in North America which is also rich in antioxidants.

o   Where to find: Grown in the south-eastern US for Yaupon Brothers and CatSpring Yaupon.

3. Fireweed tea (Chamaenerion angustifolium) – Anti-inflammatory and rich in vitamin C.

o   Where to find: Northern US, Canada, and from foraging groups and wildcrafting companies.

4. Wild mint tea (Mentha arvensis). Digestive aid, cooling and soothing.

5. Spruce tip tea. Immune-boosting and high in vitamin C.

o   Where to find: Collected in boreal forests and available from Indigenous suppliers and sustainable wildcrafting groups.

6. Sassafras root tea. Traditional Indigenous tea historically used for cleansing.

o   Where to find: Wild-harvested in the south-eastern US and available from specialty herbal suppliers.

🌿 AUSTRALIA

🌱 Sustainable & Health-Promoting Teas

1. Daintree black tea. Naturally grown, pesticide-free, full-bodied black tea.

o   Where to find: Grown in Queensland for Daintree Tea Company.

2. Lemon myrtle tea – Antibacterial, high in antioxidants and supports digestion.

o   Where to find. Native to Australia and widely available in organic tea blends.

3. Aniseed myrtle tea. Anti-inflammatory and supports respiratory health.

o   Where to find. Grown in Australia and available from Australian Bush Spices and specialty tea brands.

4. Rosella (hibiscus) tea. Vitamin C-rich and supports heart health.

o   Where to find. Grown in Northern Australia and available from Australian organic tea suppliers.

5. Organic green tea. High in antioxidants and supports metabolism.

o   Where to find Grown in Victoria and NSW for Two Rivers Green Tea and Zen Green Tea.

🍃 Native Teas of Australia

1. Jilungin Dreaming Tea. Traditional Indigenous herbal tea that is sleep-promoting.

o   Where to find. Wild-harvested in Western Australia and available from Indigenous-owned retailers, including Roogenic.

2. Strawberry gum tea (Eucalyptus olida). Antioxidant-rich and supports digestion and immunity.

o   Where to find. Native to NSW and available from Australian Indigenous botanicals suppliers.

3. River mint tea (Mentha australis). Cooling, supports digestion and respiratory health.

o   Where to find. Wild-harvested and sold by Indigenous-owned businesses and bush tucker suppliers.

4. Peppermint gum tea (Eucalyptus dives). Eucalyptus-infused tea that supports respiratory health.

o   Where to find. Native to Australia and available from bush food suppliers.

5. Kunzea tea (Kunzea ambigua). Anti-inflammatory, soothing herbal tea.

o   Where to find. Native to Tasmania and sold from Australian bush medicine companies.

6. Wattleseed tea (acacia species). Nutty and high in protein and antioxidants.

o   Where to find. Indigenous to Australia and available from native food suppliers.

Final thoughts

Switching to plastic-free tea bags or loose-leaf tea is a small but powerful step toward better health and sustainability. Not only does this reduce exposure to microplastics, but it also helps protect the environment from unnecessary waste.

Next time you brew a cup of tea, choose a sustainable, plastic-free option—your body and the planet will thank you.