What are the Circular Lines on Plastic Cups For: the Reason That Almost No One Knows

Not everyone knows that there are circular lines on plastic cups, and you’ll find them on biodegradable ones as well. Over the past couple of years, there has been a growing effort to combat the increasing use of plastic. However, many people continue to use plastic cups when more sustainable options are available. In the meantime, biodegradable cups are gaining popularity in many households. Do you notice both plastic and biodegradable cups share a common feature: circular lines.

Although plastic cups are becoming less common in some places, some people still don’t know the purpose of these circular lines, which can be found on both plastic and biodegradable cups. Some may think that these circular lines are designed to provide a better grip and prevent the cup from slipping. However, that’s not the case, and it’s also incorrect to assume they are solely for aesthetic purposes.

The real reason for the circular lines on the cups

The circular lines on these cups are primarily used for measuring alcohol, particularly spirits. The lower strings at the base serve as indicators for measuring the amount of bitters or spirits such as whisky, tequila, or gin. Each of these lines corresponds to approximately 30 ml of liquid.

As you move up the cup, the lines represent larger measurements, such as 150 ml and even 360 ml. Essentially, these lines help you gauge the quantity of liquids, especially alcohol, to avoid overpouring.

Understanding the purpose of these lines on cups is important, but it’s equally vital to recognize the harm caused by plastic to our planet. Hundreds of tons of plastic waste accumulate, and disposing of it is a significant challenge. Therefore, every individual has a moral obligation to reduce plastic usage to help protect the Earth. This applies to all types of plastic, not just cups.