Infusions

In the cloister of the caddy
a brew begins –
nylon-lace threads
drift into unseen wakes,
plastic-rain shadows
that rise with the steam.
Each cup holds
a shifting sea,
ghost-splinters
drifting like flotsam,
to etch soft wounds
through the skin’s
dotted lines.
The ritual remains
of every sip
steeped in harm –
when the body steals
what we failed
to refuse.

This poem is inspired by recent research, which has found tea bags can release millions of microplastics.

Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPLs) are an increasing concern due to their potential impacts on human health and the environment. While much attention has been given to plastics in oceans and soils, less is known about everyday exposure through food-related items, such as teabags. These items, often overlooked, may release MNPLs during regular use, potentially contributing to ingestion and associated risks. Understanding these less obvious sources of exposure is critical for assessing the broader implications of MNPLs on health and safety.

This research focuses on teabags as a source of MNPLs, simulating real-life preparation to identify the release of micro- and nanoparticles. Using a range of advanced techniques, the study examined teabags made from nylon, polypropylene, and cellulose, revealing significant differences in particle release depending on material type. The research also explored how human intestinal cells interact with these particles, showing that uptake varies by cell type and plastic composition. By using realistic MNPL samples, this study highlights the need for further investigation into everyday exposure sources and their potential effects on human health, providing a foundation for better understanding and mitigating the risks associated with MNPLs.