Plastic containers have long been used to hold and store beverages, from sodas to water and even baby formula. But recent revelations are making consumers think twice before purchasing certain plastic products. Keeping a close eye on what you buy and how you use it can eliminate the dangers associated with chemicals in this petroleum-based product known as plastic.
Types
Plastic bottles are marked with recycling codes that are determined by their chemical makeup. Plastics #1, #3, #6 and #7 are among the varieties not recommended for certain uses, and scientists say #2, #4 and #5 are safer. However, determining the safety of individual plastics truly depends on how you plan to use it.
Bisphenol A
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a potentially-harmful chemical that is used to make durable containers for food and drink. The chemical, which can leech out of the container when reused to do wear, is typically found in #7 plastics. Nalgene water bottles and sip cups can contain BPA.
Effects of BPA
Although the amounts of BPA that can leech out of plastics are small, scientists have discovered a link between the chemical and hormonal malfunction. In addition, found a correlation between BPA and breast and uterine cancer, higher rates of miscarriage and decreased testosterone levels.
Plastic #1
It's advisable not to reuse bottles containing polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a chemical found in most plastic #1. Plastic #1 is typically used to hold beverages like soda, water and juice. Containers made of plastic #1 will likely not harm you if you make a habit of using them just once, but repeated refilling is not recommended. Over time, these bottles have been known to leech the carcinogen DEHP. It's best to recycle this common plastic instead of reusing.
Safer Choices
Many types of plastic are perfectly safe to drink from and even reuse. Plastics made from #2, #4, and #5 have shown less detrimental effects, however, these types of plastic may be harder to find. Plastic #2 usually makes up opaque containers that hold milk. Plastic #4 is commonly found in grocery store bags and #5 is used to hold syrup, yogurt, soups. Some baby bottles are made out of #5.
Considerations
While avoiding certain plastics will protect you and your family's health, there are more steps you can take to avoid contamination through plastic. Using glass containers for beverages--even baby bottles--is a good start. Also, avoid putting plastic dishes in the dishwasher as the extreme heat can cause the material to break down and leech.
Other Tips
Avoid the use of plastic in the microwave, a process which can cause chemicals to be released into your food. This includes plastic wraps in addition to cups and plates, as many brands of wraps contain harmful chemicals that can leech.
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