Tea is a beloved daily ritual for many Australians, but did you know that most conventional tea bags contain plastic? These hidden plastics contribute to microplastic pollution and environmental harm.
If you’re looking for plastic free tea bags in Australia, you’re in the right place. This guide explores the best sustainable options available and why making the switch matters.
Why Choose Plastic Free Tea Bags?
Many popular tea brands use plastic in their tea bags, typically polypropylene, to seal them. This means:
- Microplastics in your tea: Studies have shown that plastic tea bags release microplastics into your drink.
- Environmental pollution: Plastic-infused tea bags don’t break down completely in compost or landfill, contributing to waste issues.
- Health concerns: While research is ongoing, ingesting microplastics may have unknown long-term health effects.
By choosing plastic free tea bags, you’re making a healthier choice for yourself and the planet.
Australian-Made and Sourced Plastic Free Tea Brands
If you want to support local businesses (yay!) while enjoying plastic free tea (BIG yay!), here are some Australian-made and sourced options:
1. Love Tea
- Why it’s great: Certified organic, Australian-owned, and uses plant-based, biodegradable tea bags.
- Sourcing: Ingredients are sourced globally, but blends are handcrafted in Australia.
2. Tea Tonic
- Why it’s great: Australian-owned and made, with unbleached, biodegradable tea bags and no plastic packaging.
- Sourcing: Uses Australian-grown ingredients where possible.
3. The Tea Collective
- Why it’s great: Hand-blended in Australia, their tea bags are plastic-free, biodegradable, and made from plant-based materials.
- Sourcing: Some blends feature Australian-grown ingredients.
4. Organic Merchant
- Why it’s great: Australian company offering loose-leaf and compostable tea bags, certified organic.
- Sourcing: Uses a mix of Australian-grown and ethically sourced global ingredients.
5. Tielka
- Why it’s great: Certified organic, Australian family-owned, and uses compostable tea bags made from plant-based material.
- Sourcing: Some ingredients are Australian-grown, while others are ethically sourced globally.
International Brands
We try to support Australian brands and local businesses where we can, but we understand it’s not always possible. If nothing has tickled your fancy so far, here are some other options:
1. T2 (Loose Leaf and Tea Bags)
T2’s recent shift towards compostable tea bags means you can enjoy their famous blends without the plastic. Choose their loose-leaf tea to go completely waste-free.
T2 claim that their tea bags don’t contain plastic. Their teabags (and the string) are made from Polylactic Acid (PLA).
2. Pukka Herbs
Pukka tea bags are made from organic cotton and wood pulp, ensuring they are fully biodegradable and free from plastic.
Pukka tea bags are made from natural fibers like abaca, wood pulp, and cellulose, with no plastic mentioned in the sealing process. They claim that independent lab tests have found no microplastics in their tea.
3. Organic India
This brand offers organic, plastic free tea bags sealed with a natural, biodegradable adhesive instead of polypropylene.
4. Clipper Tea
Clipper was one of the first tea brands to introduce plastic free, unbleached tea bags, ensuring sustainability without compromising taste.
Clipper claim that their tea bags don’t contain plastic. Their teabags are sealed with Polylactic Acid (PLA).
Is Polylactic Acid (PLA) safe in tea bags?
Yes, PLA is considered safe for consumers in tea bags. Research confirms that it does not release harmful substances when in contact with food or steeped in boiling water. PLA is a biodegradable, non-toxic material that meets food safety regulations. However, concerns exist about its potential to break down into microplastics under certain environmental conditions. This does not affect its safety during use in tea bags.
How to Identify Plastic Free Tea Bags
When shopping for tea, look for these key indicators of a truly plastic free product:
- Material transparency: Brands should clearly state that their tea bags are biodegradable or compostable.
- No polypropylene sealant: Check the packaging or the brand’s website to confirm they don’t use plastic-based adhesives.
Best Alternatives to Tea Bags
If you want to go a step further in reducing waste, consider these plastic free alternatives:
- Loose-leaf tea: Using a stainless steel or bamboo infuser is a waste-free way to enjoy tea.
- DIY reusable tea bags: Some brands sell reusable cotton tea bags that you can fill with your favourite loose-leaf tea.
- Compostable tea bags: Brands offering home-compostable tea bags ensure they break down naturally without harming the environment.
The Impact of Going Plastic Free
Switching to plastic free tea bags may seem like a small change, but it contributes to reducing plastic waste and protecting marine life. Every cup of tea without plastic prevents microplastic pollution, supports sustainable businesses, and encourages larger tea brands to adopt eco-friendly practices.
Where to Buy Plastic Free Tea Bags in Australia
Many health food stores, supermarkets, and online retailers stock plastic free tea brands. Some great places to find them include:
- Online retailers: Websites like Biome, Flora & Fauna, and The Source Bulk Foods offer sustainable tea options.
- Local bulk food stores: Many bulk stores sell loose-leaf tea, allowing you to buy in small quantities and avoid packaging altogether.
- Some brands, like Pukka and Clipper, are available in major supermarkets but we try to avoid buying from retail giants if possible.
Why Australians Should Boycott Woolworths and Coles for a More Sustainable Future
Making the switch to plastic free tea bags in Australia is a simple yet impactful way to reduce your environmental footprint. With so many great options available, there’s no need to compromise on taste or convenience. Whether you opt for compostable tea bags or embrace loose-leaf tea, every choice counts towards a more sustainable future.
TL;DR: Most tea bags contain plastic, which harms the environment and may affect your health. In Australia, brands like Love Tea, Pukka, and Clipper offer plastic free alternatives. Look for biodegradable materials, avoid polypropylene sealants, and consider loose-leaf tea for a zero-waste option. You can find plastic free tea bags at health stores, supermarkets, and online retailers. Making the switch is an easy step towards sustainability!
FAQs about Plastic Free Tea Bags
Which of these brands are the most affordable?
Generally, plastic free tea bags may cost slightly more than conventional ones due to the higher production costs of sustainable materials. However, Clipper and Pukka are more budget-friendly options compared to boutique organic brands like Love Tea.
How do I properly dispose of compostable tea bags?
Most compostable tea bags can go into your home compost, but check the packaging. Some require industrial composting to break down completely. If in doubt, cut open the bag and compost the tea leaves separately.
Do plastic free tea bags affect the taste of the tea?
Not at all! In fact, some tea drinkers find that removing plastic improves the taste, as there are no artificial materials leaching into the hot water.
Are there any Australian-owned brands that offer plastic free tea bags?
Yes! Love Tea and The Tea Collective are great Australian-owned options that prioritise sustainability.
What about flavoured teas? Are there plastic free options for herbal and speciality blends?
Absolutely! Brands like Pukka Herbs, Organic India, and T2 offer a wide range of herbal and flavoured teas in plastic free packaging.
Are all biodegradable tea bags truly plastic free?
Not necessarily. Some brands claim their tea bags are biodegradable but still contain plastic elements. Always check for certification or specific mentions of plastic free materials.
What’s the best way to store loose-leaf tea for freshness?
Keep loose-leaf tea in an airtight container away from light, moisture, and strong odours. Glass jars, tin canisters, or compostable zip-lock bags work well.
Does the switch to plastic free tea bags make a significant environmental impact?
Yes! While it might seem like a small change, millions of tea bags are discarded daily. Switching to plastic free options reduces landfill waste and microplastic pollution in waterways.
Are there any DIY methods for making my own tea bags at home?
Yes! You can use reusable cotton tea bags or make your own with unbleached muslin cloth, sewing them into small pouches. Alternatively, a tea infuser or strainer is a great zero-waste option.
