"The Hidden Side of Tea Bags... and How We Chose to Do Better
Drinking herbal tea is often associated with a moment of well-being, relaxation, or self-care. But in recent years, numerous studies have revealed an unexpected concern: the teabag itself could be harmful to your health. Microplastics, pesticides, non-biodegradable materials… let’s take a closer look — and above all, discover the healthy and sustainable alternatives we’ve chosen at Provence d’Antan.
Les scandales liés aux sachets de thé et de tisane
In recent years, alarming studies have shed light on an unsuspected issue hidden in our daily rituals: not all tea or herbal infusion bags are as harmless as they seem.
Plastic teabags that release billions of micro- and nanoparticles
A study conducted by McGill University in Canada (published in Environmental Science & Technology) revealed that a single plastic teabag — often made from nylon or PET — can release up to 11.6 billion microplastics and 3.1 billion nanoparticles into just one cup of hot water.
These particles are invisible to the naked eye, yet very real.
These plastics were never designed to withstand high temperatures — and yet, that’s exactly what happens when we steep our tea or herbal infusion.
Sources:
- Plantes & Santé – Vous reprendrez bien une tasse de thé ?
- Science Direct – Étude sur les microplastiques dans les infusions
- Science Alert – Des milliards de microplastiques libérés par un sachet
What Are the Effects on Our Body?
Research on microplastics in the human body is still in its early stages, but several studies have already identified worrying risks:
- Intestinal inflammation: Microplastics can disrupt gut flora and trigger chronic inflammation of the digestive system.
- Endocrine disruptors: Certain plastic components (such as bisphenol A and phthalates) are known to interfere with hormonal balance.
- Oxidative stress: The presence of nanoparticles may accelerate cellular aging and increase the risk of metabolic or degenerative diseases.
- Accumulation in organs: Traces of microplastics have been found in the liver, kidneys, and even the brain of laboratory animals.
- Placental transfer: Recent studies have detected microplastics in human placentas, suggesting exposure may begin even before birth.
And That’s Not All: Glues, Staples, and Pesticides Too
Beyond plastics, many teabags are sealed with glue or staples, which can release chemical residues during steeping. Others may contain pesticide residues from poorly controlled crops or post-harvest treatments.
The combination of heat and water promotes the migration of these substances into the drink — a genuine public health concern.
What you thought was a “detox” beverage might, in fact, be exposing your body to invisible contaminants.
What We’ve Chosen at Provence d’Antan
Since our very beginnings, we have made it our mission to protect nature, your health, and the natural richness of plants — by choosing safe, biodegradable, and recyclable materials.
Here’s an overview of our different teabag formats:
Teabag Format
Material: Double-chamber paper made of cotton gauze, hand-sewn with no staples or glue. Biodegradable and environmentally friendly.
Infusion performance: Optimized brewing thanks to its honeycomb structure.
Tag: Printed with plant-based ink.
Envelope: Extruded paper with a thin polyethylene layer — recyclable and printed with water-based ink, free from harmful chemicals.
- Packaging: Packed in Europe.
Drop-Shaped Teabag
Material: Hand-sewn biodegradable plant-based nylon made from corn fiber.
Tag: Printed with plant-based ink.
Envelope: Airtight to preserve the natural aromas and freshness of the plants.
- Packaging: Packed in France.
Fuso Teabag
Material: Soilon fabric — a bio-based material made from corn starch, free from microplastics and nanoparticles.
Compostable after use.
Tag: Biodegradable paper printed with plant-based ink.
Envelope: Made of NatureFlex, a film derived from renewable resources.
Manufacturing & Packaging: Made and packed in France.
Our plants are carefully sorted, sifted, and inspected to preserve only the most noble parts — those richest in natural active compounds.
100% plant-based (VEGAN, except for Honey Lavender), with no artificial coloring, no artificial flavoring, and less than 1 calorie per cup.
Every batch is tested to ensure the absence of pesticides and bacteria.
Why It Matters
Choosing an herbal tea also means making a choice for the environment.
By favoring compostable teabags, free from plastic and glue, and using plant-based or water-based inks, we reduce our environmental footprint — from the field to your cup.
And You?
Have you ever paid attention to what your teabags are made of?
Were you aware of the potential risks linked to microplastics?
At Provence d’Antan, we believe that to inform is to protect.
Drink clean, drink consciously.
At Provence d’Antan, every cup is crafted with care — for your well-being and for the planet.
