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When it comes to what’s in your drink, most of us are thinking about flavor, ingredients, maybe even the sugar content. But in recent years, another question has bubbled to the surface: Are there microplastics in what we’re sipping? And if so, what does that mean for non-alcoholic beverages?

At Dray Drinks, we know our community cares not just about what you drink, but how it's made—ethically, sustainably, and with wellness in mind. So let’s unpack the truth about microplastics, what the research says about beverage contamination, and how to make more informed choices without spiraling into eco-doom.

First, What Are Microplastics?

Microplastics are tiny plastic particles—less than 5mm in size—that result from the breakdown of larger plastic materials. Think: water bottles, food wrappers, synthetic textiles, and packaging. Over time, exposure to sunlight, friction, and degradation causes these materials to fragment into microscopic pieces that end up in soil, water, and yes, even our food and drink.

There are two types of microplastics:

• Primary microplastics: Manufactured small (like microbeads in cosmetics).
  

• Secondary microplastics: Created by the breakdown of larger plastics over time.
  
  

These tiny particles are now so widespread that researchers have found them in sea salt, bottled water, beer, produce, and even human blood.

How Do Microplastics End Up in Beverages?

The big culprit? Packaging. Most bottled beverages—whether alcoholic, non-alcoholic, carbonated, or still—are stored in plastic containers or sealed with plastic-lined caps. During storage and transport, friction and heat can cause microplastic particles to shed into the drink.

One 2018 study by Orb Media and SUNY Fredonia found microplastics in over 90% of bottled water samples tested. Plastic tea bags and single-use coffee pods have also raised red flags for potential shedding.

But it’s not just bottles. Microplastics can enter drinks through:

• Plastic filtration systems
  

• Synthetic hoses or gaskets in bottling facilities
  

• Environmental contamination during ingredient harvesting
  
  

Even beverages in aluminum cans or glass bottles can contain trace plastics if components like liners or caps include plastic parts.

Are Microplastics in NA Drinks?

The short answer: Possibly. But it’s not just non-alcoholic drinks—it’s beverages across the board. There’s no definitive study singling out NA drinks as more or less contaminated than their alcoholic counterparts. The issue comes down to the packaging and production process, not the presence or absence of alcohol.

That said, many functional, craft, or premium NA brands lean toward more sustainable practices. Glass packaging, minimal plastic closures, and eco-conscious sourcing can all reduce the likelihood of plastic contamination—especially compared to mass-produced sodas or sugary drinks.

At Dray, we’ve noticed that several of our favorite brands prioritize not just what’s in the bottle, but the bottle itself. And that’s the kind of intentionality we can get behind.

What Are the Health Concerns with Microplastics?

The science around microplastics and human health is still developing, but early findings raise concerns. Studies suggest microplastics may:

• Accumulate in organs and tissues
  

• Disrupt endocrine (hormonal) function
  

• Carry harmful chemicals or bacteria on their surfaces
  

• Contribute to inflammation and oxidative stress
  
  

Researchers have found plastic particles in human lungs, bloodstream, and even placental tissue. While the long-term health effects are still unclear, the precautionary principle—minimizing exposure when possible—definitely applies.

How to Reduce Microplastics in Your Beverage Life

This issue might feel overwhelming when you start to unpack it. However, there’s a few things we have started doing and you can do them too: 

1. Choose drinks in glass bottles or aluminum cans: These tend to shed fewer plastics compared to PET plastic bottles.

2. Avoid single-use plastics when possible: Reusable drinkware helps at home or on the go.

3. Support brands using eco-conscious packaging: Many indie NA brands go above and beyond.

4. Store drinks properly: Heat accelerates plastic degradation, so avoid storing plastic bottles in hot places.

5. Ask brands about their packaging practices: If they care, they’ll tell you.

Brands That Keep It Clean (Inside and Out)

Many of the brands we carry at Dray are actively working to reduce plastic use. Ghia uses glass bottles with aluminum caps. Figlia packages their beautiful aperitivo blends in heavy glass with no plastic in sight. Casamara Club uses recyclable cans and partners with carbon-offset initiatives.

While it’s tough to avoid plastic entirely, these brands show that mindful production and thoughtful packaging go hand in hand. And we love that for them—and for you.

How Dray Drinks Supports Sustainable Sipping

At Dray, we think of ourselves as your hype squad for mindful drinking. That means we care about ingredient transparency and packaging practices. We prioritize brands that reflect your values—whether that’s sugar-free, alcohol-free, or as plastic-free as possible.

Many of our beverages come in glass or recyclable aluminum, and we’re always on the lookout for brands innovating in both product and packaging. Visit us at South End or Central Square, or browse our online collection to discover drinks that care as much as you do.

Final Sip: Microplastics Aren’t the Whole Story

While the presence of microplastics in consumer goods is real (and a little unsettling), the solution isn’t panic—it’s progress. By supporting brands that are intentional about their sourcing, production, and packaging, you’re helping shape a cleaner, healthier future with every sip.

At Dray, we believe in drinks that don’t just taste good—they do good. For your body. For the planet. For tomorrow. So keep sipping, keep asking questions, and keep demanding better. We’ll be right here with you.

This blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. For more information about microplastic exposure and health, consult credible environmental health organizations like EWG or Plastic Pollution Coalition.