Monday 30 March 2026 – 04:32 AM
A new study has revealed that disposable paper cups are suitable for on-the-go drinks, but concerns have emerged about their safety.
The danger of paper cups
According to Times Now News, these cups are usually lined with a thin plastic film to prevent liquid from seeping through the paper. However, when exposed to hot liquids, this plastic layer can degrade, releasing microplastic particles into the drink. Studies have shown that within just 15 minutes of contact with hot liquids, large amounts of these microplastic particles can seep into the drink.
The results of the study showed that paper cups release harmful chemicals into your drink, and the microplastic layer begins to decompose within just 15 minutes. This process releases approximately 25,000 microplastic particles
Alternatives to single-use paper cups need to be carefully evaluated, and while the shift away from plastic is necessary, paper cups are not necessarily the safest or most sustainable option. Professor Virendra K Tiwari, director of the Kharagpur Institute of Technology, suggested that traditional alternatives such as pottery or more eco-friendly products used within India’s sustainable practices could be a healthier solution.
