Surge in Tea Imports and Rising Health Concerns Over Tea Bag Use in Pakistan

During the first half of the current fiscal year, tea imports in Pakistan have witnessed a significant increase, with the country spending over 96 billion rupees on tea. This marks a 35% rise compared to the same period last year when imports totaled over 71 billion rupees.

While excessive tea consumption is already harmful, experts have raised concerns about the growing use of tea bags, especially in offices, where the trend is rapidly increasing. Tea bags are being used for convenience, saving time, and making tea preparation easier. However, this practice may come with hidden health risks.

Dr. Sarah Bashir, a specialist in gastrointestinal and liver diseases, has expressed deep concerns about the materials used in tea bags. According to her, many tea bags contain low-quality paper, plastic, and bleaching agents, which, when infused in hot water, can release harmful chemicals. These chemicals enter the body and may negatively affect sensitive organs like the stomach and liver.

Dr. Bashir pointed out that not only is the use of tea bags now common in homes and offices, but a variety of flavored green tea bags are also widely available. She also highlighted that some tea bags contain microplastics, which pose additional risks. These microplastic particles dissolve in hot water and can enter the body, potentially causing long-term health issues such as hormonal imbalances, cancer risks, and other diseases. The long-term effects of microplastics are still not fully understood, but experts believe their use can have serious health consequences.

Dr. Bashir recommended that people opt for loose-leaf tea, as it contains fewer chemicals and plastic, making it a safer and more natural option. She also emphasized the importance of moderating tea consumption, advising that individuals who consume large amounts of tea should limit their intake to a maximum of two cups per day to avoid the negative impacts of overconsumption.

Recent studies from Barcelona University have further confirmed the dangers of microplastics in tea bags. According to their research, tea bags made from polypropylene release 1.2 billion microplastic particles into hot water, while those made from cellulose and nylon release 135 million and 80 million particles, respectively. These particles may contribute to the formation of harmful chemicals that can increase the risk of cancer.

Earlier, a study by McGill University in Canada, published in *Environmental Science and Technology*, found that a plastic tea bag can release up to 11.6 billion microplastic particles and 3.1 billion nanoplastic particles into the water. The number of microplastics found in tea was significantly higher than those found in other food items, raising further concerns.

In an experiment involving aquatic creatures, researchers found that while the organisms could escape the harmful effects of microplastics in tea bags, changes in their physical structure and behavior were observed, indicating the potential long-term harm posed by these particles.

As tea consumption continues to rise in Pakistan, health experts urge consumers to be cautious about the risks associated with tea bags and to consider healthier alternatives.