Plastic kettles release millions of nanoplastic particles, study warns

Researchers from Columbia University and the University of Queensland found that plastic kettles made of polypropylene can release massive amounts of micro- and nanoplastic particles into boiled water. In tests of eight new kettles, initial measurements showed up to 12 million particles per milliliter – roughly three billion fragments in a typical 250 ml cup of tea or coffee. Repeated boiling reduced the release, but even after 150 cycles the water still contained about 820 000 particles per milliliter, equivalent to around 205 million particles per cup.

The scientists described daily kettle use as a continuous exposure source for millions of people worldwide. They urged manufacturers and regulators to provide clear usage instructions or warnings and recommended users perform several cleaning cycles before first use. The study also noted that micro‑ and nanoplastics have been detected in human placenta, lung tissue, stool and blood, and laboratory data suggest high doses may trigger inflammation, impair immune responses and increase cancer risk. Related research found bottled water can contain about 240 000 nanoplastic particles per liter.

The authors plan to investigate other household appliances and older kettle models for similar emissions.