A tea bag is a small, porous pouch designed to hold dried tea leaves or herbal materials for convenient steeping. Ingesting one is generally not immediately life-threatening, but it can present a range of uncomfortable, and in some cases, medically significant issues. The risks involved depend heavily on two factors: the chemical composition of the contents and the physical nature of the bag material itself.
The Effects of Ingesting Concentrated Tea Leaves
Consuming the entire contents of a tea bag results in a highly concentrated dose of the compounds found in the leaves. For traditional teas like black or green tea, this means a sudden, substantial intake of caffeine. This higher-than-normal concentration can quickly lead to symptoms of overstimulation, such as increased anxiety, jitteriness, and a rapid or irregular heart rate.
The concentrated plant material also contains high levels of compounds known as tannins. In large amounts, these tannins can irritate the delicate lining of the stomach and small intestine. This irritation often manifests as stomach upset, nausea, and in some instances, vomiting.
Physical and Digestive Hazards of Bag Materials
The main physical risk of swallowing a tea bag is the potential for an obstruction, especially if the bag is swallowed whole and dry. Tea bags are generally made from either treated paper or synthetic materials like nylon or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). While paper bags are largely composed of cellulose, they usually soften and pass through the system.
In contrast, modern mesh or pyramid-shaped bags, often made of plastic polymers, are entirely non-digestible. These synthetic bags maintain their structure in the digestive tract and can potentially become lodged, particularly in people with pre-existing narrowing of the esophagus or intestines. A complete blockage, although rare, requires immediate medical intervention.
Understanding Non-Tea Components and Additives
Beyond the physical bulk of the bag, non-tea components and chemical additives pose unique concerns. Many traditional tea bags are sealed with a small metal staple connecting the string and tag. Ingesting a sharp metal object like a staple carries the risk of perforating the delicate lining of the esophagus, stomach, or intestines, which is a serious medical emergency.
The string and paper tag attached to the bag also introduce a risk of entanglement or choking, particularly in small children. More concerning are the microplastic particles released from synthetic mesh bags. Research indicates that these polymer bags can shed micro- and nano-sized plastic particles. Ingesting these particles is linked to concerns about potential cellular damage, inflammation, and the leaching of chemical additives, such as endocrine disruptors.
Steps to Take Following Ingestion
If a tea bag is swallowed, the immediate action is to remain calm and monitor for symptoms. If the tea bag contained a metal staple or another sharp object, or if there is difficulty breathing, severe abdominal pain, or persistent vomiting, immediate emergency medical attention is required. Sharp objects can cause internal injury and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional without delay.
For ingestion of the bag material and contents only, call Poison Control for expert guidance. A specialist can provide case-specific advice based on the type of tea and the person’s age and weight. In the absence of severe symptoms, monitoring for the passage of the bag and watching for signs of obstruction, such as an inability to pass gas or stool, is advisable.