While paper tea bags are convenient, there are three important reasons to limit their use:

1.       Plastic in tea bags
Many paper tea bags contain polypropylene (plastic) to make the bag sturdy and heat resistant. When exposed to hot water, microplastics can leach into your tea.

2.       Chemical treatment
Paper tea bags are often reinforced with epichlorohydrin to prevent tearing. When exposed to hot water, this substance can hydrolyze to 3-monochloropropane-1,2-diol, a known carcinogenic compound.

3.       Chlorine bleaching
Many tea bags are bleached with chlorine, which can leave residue in the water when brewing tea.

For a pure and safe tea experience, it is therefore advisable to opt for loose whole leaf tea and a tea strainer.