November 20, 2025 : Despite being marketed as the “safer” option, paper cups are far from harmless. Microplastics have become so widespread that they’re now found everywhere – from breast milk to reproductive tissue – and even that seemingly innocent paper cup is part of the problem. What looks like simple paper is actually coated with plastic, which can seep into your drink, especially when it’s hot – so most of us are unknowingly sipping microplastics with every coffee.
Khushi Chhabra, a holistic health nutritionist and diabetes educator, is raising awareness about the hidden dangers of paper cups – and the broader risks of ingesting microplastics. In an Instagram video posted on November 18, the nutritionist emphasises, “You are drinking plastic with your coffee!” and explains why it is dangerous.
Why avoid plastic cups?
According to Khushi, disposable plastic cups are coated with a thin waterproof lining – and when you drink from them, significant amounts of microplastics can leach into your beverage. She explains, “We think we are making a safe choice with paper cups, but the reality is much scarier. That ‘paper’ cup is actually lined with a hidden layer of plastic (usually polyethylene) to keep it waterproof. And every time you pour hot coffee into it, microplastics smaller than 25,000 microns leech into your drink.”
Summary:
A nutritionist explained that disposable paper cups release harmful microplastics when filled with hot coffee, urging people to switch to safer, reusable options to protect health.