Buzz Killer: Caffeine Pollutes. Can Bacteria Help?

Researchers at the University of California, Davis, and University of Alabama are investigating how caffeine-addicted bacteria may be used as a cleanup crew for caffeine. 

Some bacteria can grow on caffeine and break it down. Gabriel Subuyuj, a UC Davis graduate student of microbiology in the lab of Professor Rebecca Parales, is studying which genes are necessary for bacteria to detect, regulate and break down caffeine. 

The work is still in its beginning stages and years away from on-the-ground applications. In the meantime, Subuyuj says there are many ways people can reduce the environmental pollution that comes with their morning (and noon, and late afternoon) cup.

Read the full story here to learn about the different ways to clean up your caffeine habit.