Next time you sip tea or coffee from a disposable paper cup, think twice. It might be releasing thousands of microplastics into your drink. According to a study by IIT Kharagpur, hot beverages in paper cups (which have a plastic lining) can release up to 25,000 microplastic particles within just 15 minutes.

Tejaswini AnanthKumar, Chairperson at IIEST, recently urged people to carry their own reusable cups while traveling. She shared that microplastics don’t just stay in your drink—they can enter your bloodstream and accumulate in vital organs like the brain, heart, and kidneys.

The long-term health risks? Alarming. Microplastics are linked to hormonal disorders, reproductive issues, obesity, neurological problems, and even cancer. In fact, recent research shows plastic particles can even reach the placenta of unborn babies.

The solution is simple but powerful: switch to steel or glass cups. Not only is it better for your health, but it’s also a sustainable step toward reducing plastic pollution.

Your morning chai doesn’t have to come with a toxic twist. Carry your own cup-your body will thank you.