My daughter wanted to buy a hot oat milk at a café the other day. My tea was so hot that I had to wait 20+ mins to let it cool down. I ended up pouring it out, when I got home and here’s why.
As I’ve learned more about health and sustainability, we’ve made some changes to what we buy and consume. (And how often)
Part 1: Coffee Cups at Cafés
I’ve stopped buying hot beverages at cafés like Starbucks completely because I learned that the coatings in those cups can leach chemicals into my drinks after just 15 minutes.
Here in Los Angeles, many cafés only use disposable to-go cups, which is quite sad. Instead, we make an effort to seek out those special places that still serve coffee or tea in real cups. Not only does this minimize exposure to harmful chemicals, but it also enhances the experience of enjoying a warm beverage in a cozy setting. Choosing cafés in in the area that prioritize sustainability and health not only benefits us but also encourages more establishments to reconsider their practices. It’s a small change, but it can lead to a big impact!
I wanted to see the plastic lining in the cups myself, so I soaked a disposable coffee cup in hot water for a while, and to my surprise, I could see the plastic lining that’s hidden inside. It actually looked like a plastic bag. This lining is what makes the cup waterproof, but it’s also where the toxic chemicals can leach into our beverages. It was a stark reminder of why we’ve chosen to avoid these cups altogether!
When hot beverages are poured into cups with plastic linings (typically made from polyethylene or other types of plastic), certain chemicals can potentially leach into the drink. The main concerns include:
1. Bisphenol A (BPA): A chemical found in some plastics that can leach when exposed to heat, potentially disrupting endocrine function. While many products are now labeled “BPA-free,” alternative chemicals like bisphenol S (BPS) may also pose health risks.
2. Phthalates: These are chemicals used to increase plastic flexibility. They can leach into beverages and are associated with hormone disruption.
3. Styrene: In cups lined with polystyrene (used in some foam cups), styrene may leach into hot beverages. Styrene is classified as a possible human carcinogen.
4. PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances): Often used to make cups waterproof or grease-resistant, these “forever chemicals” can leach into hot drinks. They have been linked to various health issues, including cancer and hormone disruption.
To reduce exposure, it’s recommended to use cups made from safer materials like glass, ceramic, or stainless steel when drinking hot beverages.
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