Can disposable beverage cups carry phthalates, bisphenols, and PFAS?
Use reusable glass for daily drinks when you can, especially for hot beverages.
What's actually in it
Disposable beverage cups can include polyethylene (PE) or polystyrene (PS). They can also involve printing inks, coatings, and processing chemicals that are not listed for the person drinking from the cup.
The concern is repeat use, especially with hot drinks. Heat and longer contact time can make food-contact materials a more important exposure source.
What the research says
A 2026 study in J Environ Sci Health B tested 40 polyethylene and polystyrene beverage cup samples from Turkey. The researchers measured phthalates, bisphenols, photoinitiators, and perfluorinated compounds.
DEHP was the most common phthalate, with levels up to 0.95 mg/kg. BPA was detected at 0.01 to 0.02 mg/kg. Five photoinitiators tied to inks and coatings were often found. PFOA appeared in 2 samples.
This study does not prove every disposable cup releases the same chemicals into every drink. It does support cutting daily contact with disposable cup materials. For coffee, tea, smoothies, and water, a glass cup is the simpler repeat-use option.
The research at a glance
| Study | Journal | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Migration of phthalates, bisphenols, photoinitiators, and perfluorinated compounds in polyethylene and polystyrene based beverage cups. | J Environ Sci Health B | 2026 |
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