Researchers at the University of Queensland have discovered that single-use paper cups, commonly used for takeaway coffee, release millions of microplastic particles when filled with hot liquids. This study, conducted by the Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences, examined cups lined with two types of materials: fossil-based polyethylene and the biodegradable alternative, polylactic acid. The findings raise significant concerns about the environmental impact of everyday coffee consumption.
“This study fills an important knowledge gap about how single use paper cups lined with plastic materials can contribute to daily plastic exposure.” The study was published in ACS Food Science & Technology. Researchers measured approximately 4.3 million nanoparticles per millilitre from PLA-lined cups, compared with 2.7 million particles per millilitre from PE-lined cups.
Dr Okoffo said the study contributes to growing evidence that new plastic products used for food storage and preparation represent a significant yet often overlooked source of human exposure via ingestion.
