Plastic in Teabags is Not Very Zen

As we sip our tea, few of us stop to think about the humble teabag. 

But the truth is, many of today's teabags contain plastic, which release microplastics into our tea and potentially harm our health. And since these plastic-tainted teabags don't decompose, they are also harmful to the environment.

The switch to plastic-containing teabags was made to improve durability and shelf life, but it's come at a cost. 

Microplastics have been found in human tissues and cells, and while the health implications are still being studied, it's a stark reminder of the need to reduce our exposure to plastic.

So, how can you tell if your teabags contain plastic? Here are some simple tests you can try:

* Check the packaging: look for terms like "100% biodegradable" or "made from natural fibres"

* The Water Test: steep a teabag in boiling water and check for an oily or soapy texture

* The Stretch Test: cut open a teabag and examine the material - plastic will be shiny and stretchy, while paper or natural fibers will be brittle and prone to tearing

* The Burn Test: hold an empty teabag over a flame - plastic will melt and smell like burning plastic, while paper or natural fibres will burn easily and smell like paper or fabric

* The Transparency Test: hold a teabag up to a light source - plastic will be semi-transparent or translucent, while paper or natural fibers will be opaque

* Research the brand: look up the company online to see if they provide information about their teabag materials

While these tests are not foolproof, they can give you an idea of what you're putting in your body. 

The only way to be certain is to contact the manufacturer or check the packaging for information about the materials used.

As we strive to live more simply and in tune with nature, we try to be mindful of the products we use and the impact they have on our health and the environment.

By choosing teabags made from natural materials, we can reduce our exposure to plastic and promote a more healthful way of living.

Remember, the precautionary principle is a powerful tool in our pursuit of a healthier, more natural lifestyle. If in doubt, it's always better to err on the side of caution and choose products that align with our values. 

So, next time you reach for a cup of tea, take a moment to think about the humble teabag and the impact it could be having on your health and the planet.

Our solution was to quit buying bagged tea entirely, and switch to loose tea instead.

All the tea flavour, none of the plastic. 

Happy plastic-free tea drinking - it is way more zen and harmonious. And better for you.