Do Bamboo Mugs Contain Carcinogens?

Chic, ecological and customizable at will, bamboo mugs have completely invaded the market. And many are the people who quickly decided to swap plastic products, and more particularly cups, for this healthy and environmentally friendly alternative. Reusable on a daily basis and housing all kinds of drinks, these mugs are an ideal solution that allows us to fight against plastic pollution. Why is a new study classified as dangerous to health? Explanation.

Are bamboo mugs really harmless to human health?

Given the fact that from January 1, the European Union banned single-use plastic products (plates, cups and cotton swabs), we are gradually starting to examine and learn about the different variants available. One of them has also made a real fury thanks to its practical nature and its elegant design allowing to be personalized in a creative and contemporary way: the bamboo mugs. What's more, these are renowned for their eco-friendly and biodegradable character. A zero waste item that never ceases to seduce us. Still, it seems the reality is not so rosy.

The German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) recently published its research on the credibility of bamboo mugs and they were found to conceal real risks to human health. Indeed, the objects in question are made from melamine reinforced with bamboo fibers. As a rule, this synthetic resin is harmless but when exposed to heat it begins to decompose into substances hazardous to health. We speak in particular of formaldehyde and of monomers defined as carcinogenic compounds.

But what exactly was the research? So, scientists investigated around 220 types of bamboo mugs and found that a hot liquid with a temperature exceeding 70 ° C causes the decomposition of toxins (as explained above) whose levels are quite alarming. We are talking about rates 30 times higher for adults and 120 times higher for toddlers. Not to mention that the amount of melamine tends to increase with regular exposure to hot or acidic drinks.

What's more, the German company Stiftung Warentest not only alerted to potential dangers, but also exposed commercial lies related to the recyclability of bamboo mugs. It has become clear that the natural fibers of bamboo break down without any concern. However, this is not the case with the cups themselves: the only solution is to burn them.

However, if you feel like continuing your green lifestyle, consider choosing products made from stainless steel, porcelain, or polypropylene.

* Source: The German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR)