What New Microplastic Research Reveals — and How Smarter Cups Can Make a Difference

For many of us, a hot coffee or tea is part of a daily routine. But emerging research suggests that the cup itself may contribute more than just convenience. Recent findings show that disposable paper cups with plastic-based linings can release microplastics into beverages, particularly when exposed to heat¹.

What Are Microplastics — and Why Are Cups Involved?

Microplastics are extremely small plastic fragments formed when plastic materials degrade. Because most conventional paper cups rely on plastic or bioplastic linings to prevent leaks, heat and liquid contact can accelerate the breakdown of those linings during normal use¹.

According to research highlighted by the University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, hot beverages served in plastic-lined paper cups were found to contain significantly elevated levels of microplastics, sometimes numbering in the thousands of particles per serving¹.

In short: heat + plastic linings = higher microplastic release.

Why Hot Drinks Are the Biggest Concern

Temperature plays a critical role in microplastic shedding. The UNM-cited research explains that hot liquids increase the rate at which plastic-based coatings degrade, leading to greater particle transfer compared to cold beverages¹.

This is especially relevant for everyday products like:

• Coffee
• Tea
• Hot chocolate
• Other heat-retained drinks

While research into long-term health impacts is still ongoing, scientists have already confirmed that microplastics are present in the human body, including in blood and tissues². This has led researchers to emphasize the importance of reducing avoidable exposure sources.

Rethinking the Cup: Aqueous Coating vs. Plastic Linings

Traditional paper cups typically use polyethylene (PE) or similar plastic films as an internal barrier. In contrast, aqueous-coated paper cups use a water-based coating system designed to provide liquid resistance without relying on conventional plastic linings.

At beyondGREEN, this approach is part of a broader focus on material innovation, not just end-of-life claims.

Learn more about beyondGREEN aqueous paper cups here:
https://byndgrn.com/products/beyondgreen-aqueous-paper-cups-12-oz-16-oz-hot-cold-use-made-in-usa-25-ct

Aqueous coatings behave differently under heat and moisture, and are increasingly explored as a lower-plastic alternative in foodservice applications.

Built for Real-World Use (Not Just Sustainability Claims)

Performance still matters. beyondGREEN aqueous paper cups are engineered to meet everyday demands:

• Sturdy rim and durable construction
• Leak-resistant for hot and cold beverages
• Smooth drinking experience
• Microwave safe
• Suitable for both hot and cold drinks

This balance of function and material responsibility is essential for cafés, offices, events, and high-volume settings.

Cold or Hot — Designed to Perform

Because both temperature extremes are common in foodservice environments, beyondGREEN cups are designed to handle iced and hot beverages without compromising structure or performance.

This matters not only for usability, but also for reducing unnecessary material breakdown during use, which is a growing focus of current research¹.

Practical Ways Consumers Can Reduce Microplastic Exposure

Based on current scientific consensus, experts generally recommend a few practical steps:

• Reduce direct contact between hot liquids and plastic materials¹
• Choose packaging with lower plastic content where possible
• Support brands investing in material science improvements, not just marketing claims

Small changes in daily habits — repeated over time — can meaningfully reduce exposure risk.

Designed for Everyday Scale

Available in 12 oz and 16 oz sizes, beyondGREEN aqueous paper cups are well-suited for:

• Offices and breakrooms
• Cafés and coffee carts
• Events and catering
• Parties and gatherings

They’re designed to be practical, scalable, and easy to integrate into existing operations.

A Smarter Cup Is a Better Cup

Research like the UNM study exists to inform better choices — not to alarm consumers. While no single product can eliminate microplastic exposure entirely, choosing smarter materials can help reduce avoidable sources.

At beyondGREEN, sustainability means designing products that perform well today while being mindful of long-term impact.

👉 Explore beyondGREEN aqueous paper cups:
https://byndgrn.com/products/beyondgreen-aqueous-paper-cups-12-oz-16-oz-hot-cold-use-made-in-usa-25-ct

Sources

1. University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center.
   Cup contamination research reveals alarming microplastic levels in beverages.
   https://hscnews.unm.edu/news/cup-contamination-research-reveals-alarming-microplastic-levels-in-beverages

2. Leslie, H. A. et al.
   Discovery and quantification of plastic particle pollution in human blood.
   Environment International, 2022.

3. beyondGREEN Aqueous Paper Cups – Product Information
   https://byndgrn.com/products/beyondgreen-aqueous-paper-cups-12-oz-16-oz-hot-cold-use-made-in-usa-25-ct