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What Does Science Say About Microplastics in Everyday Beverages?

/ 25 February 2026 / Comments

Every day, we hold a cup of hot coffee, a glass of tea, or a refreshing drink without realizing that invisible microplastic particles may be present within it.

These particles cannot be seen with the naked eye. However, modern quantitative analytical methods now allow scientists to detect and measure their presence. A study published in the journal Foods (2024) examined the release of microplastics from commonly used plastic materials into drinking water under real-world usage conditions. The findings show that disposable cups made from polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), expanded polystyrene (EPS), and polyethylene-coated paper (PE) can release microplastics into water at both cold and hot temperatures.

Key findings from the research:

  • Detected concentrations: 126 to 1,420 particles per liter of water.
  • Primary influencing factor: temperature. Microplastic release at 50°C and 80°C was significantly higher than at 4°C. When water reached 50 to 80°C, scanning electron microscopy revealed clear signs of surface abrasion and microstructural deformation. These microscopic changes enable particles to detach from the cup surface and enter the beverage.
  • Estimated exposure: A person may ingest between 18,720 and 73,840 microplastic particles annually from the use of disposable cups alone. Among the tested materials, polypropylene cups were associated with the highest exposure levels.

Why don’t we perceive microplastics while drinking?

Analytical results show that microplastics appear in a variety of colors. Blue particles accounted for the highest proportion at approximately 23 percent, followed by black, yellow, and red. Despite their presence, they cannot be detected through taste or touch.

This is due to their extremely small size and distinctive morphology.

  • Microscopic dimensions: More than half of the particles measured between 10 and 50 micrometers, far smaller than the diameter of a human hair. At this scale, they cannot be sensed while drinking.
  • Diverse morphology: The majority appear as fibers (about 53.5 percent), followed by fragments and ultra-thin films. These forms disperse easily in water and do not create noticeable texture.

Although the long-term health implications of microplastic ingestion are still under investigation, their presence in drinking water has been clearly documented. Notably, the study indicates that microplastics are not generated solely by heat exposure. A significant portion may already be present on cup surfaces as residues from manufacturing, packaging, and transportation.

Your water choice, your peace of mind

We cannot control every aspect of the environment around us. What we can do, however, is make conscious choices about cleaner, safer water sources and adopt more sustainable ways of using them.

Water is more than simple hydration. It is the foundation of well-being and the essential component of coffee, tea, and virtually every beverage we enjoy each day. When water is safeguarded from unwanted contaminants, the drinking experience becomes not only more refined, but also more reassuring.

For this reason, there is growing interest in point-of-use water systems, reduced reliance on single-use containers, and more sustainable consumption practices. Point-of-use filtration solutions help to:

  • Reduce dependence on single-use plastic bottles and cups
  • Provide greater control over daily drinking water quality
  • Support a more sustainable and environmentally responsible lifestyle

With a comprehensive approach to water protection, BWT develops source-based water treatment and optimization solutions designed to enhance taste and overall experience, while helping minimize factors that may compromise water quality in everyday life.

Clean water for today, a sustainable future for tomorrow

Clean water is not defined solely by clarity or taste. It also reflects transparency of origin and confidence in every choice we make.

As global awareness grows regarding the presence of microplastics in the food and beverage chain, transitioning to sustainable water solutions is no longer a passing trend. It is a natural progression of modern living.

BWT accompanies you on that journey, beginning with something simple yet essential: choosing a water source you can truly trust.

Source: Akbulut, S., Akman, P. K., Tornuk, F., & Yetim, H. (2024). Microplastic release from single-use plastic beverage cups. Foods, 13(10), 1564.