Study Shows Boiling Water in Plastic Kettles Releases Nanoplastics and Microplastics into Water

Dr. Elvis Okafor from the Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences at the University of Queensland stated that the amount of plastic particles released during the first few uses of the new kettle is the highest, but even after 150 uses, such particles can still be detected.

Research has found that the first boil of a new kettle releases nearly 12 million nanoparticles per milliliter, equivalent to nearly 3 billion nanoparticles in an average 250-milliliter cup of tea. After 150 boils, 820,000 nanoparticles are still detected per milliliter, equivalent to 205 million nanoparticles detected in each 250-milliliter cup.

"Boiling water in plastic water bottles is a daily habit for millions of people around the world, and we have found that this simple habit releases tiny plastic particles into the water we use every day."Dr. Okafor said.This study provides evidence that plastic water bottles may be a source of daily human exposure to nanoplastics and microplastics, and that new plastic water bottles release significant concentrations of these particles into water during the boiling process.。”

Research has found that hard tap water significantly reduces the release of nano-plastic particles, likely because minerals form a protective layer inside the kettle. Disposing of the water from the first few boils of a new plastic kettle can also reduce the release and ingestion of particles, which has been recommended by some kettle manufacturers.

Simple before first use"Flushing is very common, but it cannot achieve the removal effect of repeatedly boiling and discarding."Dr. Okafor said, "Many people may overlook or skip this step, highlighting the need for clearer product labels and instructions."

"Call on manufacturers, policymakers, and regulators to inform consumers about the warning of plastic pellet leakage through safety guidelines or product labeling. Although the concentration of pellets decreases with repeated use, our research indicates a persistent and low-level exposure risk."

Dr. Okafor stated that the study highlights the importance of further research on the impact of long-term exposure to plastic particles on human health.

“"The concentration of these particles and the level of human exposure remain unclear."He said.

“This study fills an important knowledge gap about how household plastic products lead to everyday plastic exposure and how small practical changes in daily life can reduce plastic exposure. By combining better product design, improved labeling, and public awareness, we can help reduce the amount of plastic entering the human body and the environment.