Do Starbucks Paper Cups Release 25,000 Microplastics into Hot Drinks?

Starbucks Corporation is an American multinational chain of coffeehouses and roastery reserves headquartered in Seattle, Washington. Sometimes, we detect in social media that their brand name is tarnished due to misinformation. This fact check is based on one such misinformation related to Starbucks coffee cups.

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A viral video circulating on social media claims that Starbucks’ paper cups, particularly those used for hot beverages, contain a thin plastic lining that allegedly leaches 25,000 microplastic particles into the drink when exposed to hot liquids for just 15 minutes. This claim has sparked concerns about potential health risks for millions of coffee drinkers who rely on disposable cups daily. But is there any truth to this alarming statement? Let’s dive into the science to separate fact from fiction.

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We decided to do a fact-check on this.

Fact Check 

Claim 1: What Are Starbucks Cups Made Of?

Starbucks, like many coffee chains, uses paper cups lined with a thin layer of polyethylene plastic to prevent the hot liquid from soaking through. This design ensures durability and prevents leaks, allowing customers to enjoy their drinks without spills. The thin plastic coating is standard in disposable coffee cups across the industry. Read here

Claim 2: Do These Cups Really Release Microplastics?

Studies have shown that the inner lining of these cups, often made of a thin polyethylene layer, can release microplastics when exposed to hot liquids. Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology found that when hot water is left in paper cups for about 15 minutes, it can result in the release of up to 25,000 microplastic particles into a 100 mL beverage. This means that an individual consuming three cups of coffee daily could ingest around 75,000 microplastic particles​the plastic lining in paper cups can degrade slightly when exposed to hot water, potentially releasing microplastics into the liquid. Read here. However, this result varies based on the cup’s construction, the temperature of the liquid, and the exposure duration.

Claim 3: What Does This Mean for Coffee Drinkers?

While the presence of microplastics in consumer products is a growing concern, the levels reported in these studies are still being researched to determine their actual impact on human health. To date, Current scientific evidence does not demonstrate that levels of microplastics or nanoplastics detected in foods pose a risk to human health. Regulatory agencies, including the FDA and the European Food Safety Authority, continue to monitor the effects of microplastic ingestion, but no clear guidelines or limits have been established yet. FDA’s stance about this can be read  here, and stance of the European Food Safety Authority can be read  here.

Claim 4: Are Starbucks Cups Safe?

Starbucks has committed to using recyclable materials and has taken steps to reduce its environmental footprint. The company has also launched trials of reusable cup programs in various regions to minimize waste. Their views and efforts to tackle this issue can be read via Starbucks website  from  here and here. While the cups currently used by Starbucks do contain a polyethylene lining, the chain emphasizes that these materials comply with health and safety standards.

Additionally, Starbucks is actively exploring alternatives to single-use plastics. In recent years, they have tested compostable liners that break down more easily and reduce the release of microplastics. Details about it can be read here in Starbucks website. 

Conclusion: Debunking the Viral Claim

While it’s true that disposable coffee cups may release microplastics when exposed to hot liquids, this release varies based on several factors like temperature, exposure time, and the cup’s construction. As research on microplastics continues, consumers should stay informed and consider more sustainable options for their daily coffee runs. 

Moreover, while concerns about microplastics in food and beverages are valid, current scientific evidence does not conclusively link the levels detected in coffee cups to significant health risks. Regulatory agencies, such as the FDA and the European Food Safety Authority, continue to monitor these issues, but clear guidelines on the safe levels of microplastic ingestion have yet to be established. 

Starbucks is also committed to sustainability, exploring alternatives like compostable liners and reusable cup programs to reduce waste and environmental impact. As research continues, it’s crucial for consumers to stay informed, and for coffee drinkers, opting for reusable or compostable cups may be a good step toward minimizing exposure to microplastics.