Microplastic pollution and risk assessment in packaged teas in Türkiye

Abstract

Abstract: This article presents the first-ever findings on the release of MPs (microplastics) from tea bags containing tea leaves into tea infusions in Türkiye. The study aimed to investigate the possible distribution and abundance of MPs in cup of tea bags and teapot tea bags of fifteen packaged tea brands in Türkiye using ATF/FTIR analysis. The results showed that MPs were found in all the analyzed tea brands. Surprisingly, the highest particle number was observed in the dry tea samples (removed from tea bags) belonging to all brands. Brands A and O had the highest abundance of MPs. All MP particles identified were fiber in shape, and four colors were identified, with a predominance of navy blue. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) was the most abundant polymer type. The size of MPs varied from 33.65 μm to 1680.20 μm. The daily MP exposure by tea intake was analyzed for male and female groups, and the dietary exposure for males was greater than that for females. According to the MP contamination factor values, a wide variety of MP contamination levels were determined, with a predominance of significant and very high levels of contamination. The mean polymer risk index was determined to be 10.80, indicating a low level of risk. Additionally, this study also provides information on the potential health effects of these harmful MPs. Considering that consuming tea is a significant way for individuals to come into contact with MPs, tea prepared with tea leaves packaged in tea bags could potentially have adverse effects on the health of consumers. Graphical Abstract: (Figure presented.)