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Saturday, March 26, 2011

Plastic Numbers...

My intention is not to ear bash you on the topic of bottled water, but just answer a few questions that have been put to me and the following may also be of interest to you.

Below is a list of the numbers that you will find on most plastics, usually located on the base.
These numbers can assist you with the knowledge of what chemicals have gone into creating the plastic and the effects they can have on your health.


1—polyethylene tetephtalate (PET)
2—high density polyethylene (HDPE)
3—polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
4—low density polyethylene (LDPE)
5—polypropylene (PP)
6—polystyrene (PS)
7—other (polycarbonate, fiberglass, nylon, more)


Plastic #1 polyethylene terephtalate, also known as PETE or PET.    #1 plastic, is usually clear. This plastic is considered generally safe. It is known to have a porous surface that allows bacteria to accumulate, so don't reuse these containers.

Plastic #2  high density polyethylene, or HDPE.  This plastic is considered safe and has low risk of leaching.

Plastic #3  polyvinyl chloride, or PVC.  There are phthalates in this material–softening chemicals that interfere with hormonal development.  Avoid use of #3 plastic around food

Plastic #4  low density polyethylene (LDPE). It is used to make grocery bags, some food wraps, squeezable bottles, and bread bags. This plastic is considered safe, but is not often recycled.

Plastic #5   polypropylene.  This plastic is considered safe.

Plastic #6  polystyrene, or Styrofoam.  Evidence is suggesting this type of plastic leaches potentially toxic chemicals, especially when heated. 
A good one to avoid

Plastic #7  A mixed bag, including the dreaded BPA.   BPA is dangerous for your health.

 #2, #4 and #5 are generally considered safe
Plastic #1 is considered safe also, but should not be re-used due to the risk of growing bacteria.
All other plastic should be used with caution, especially around food or drink.
For microwaving in particular, remember that microwave safe containers aren’t necessarily healthy. They just won’t melt. It’s better to avoid microwaving plastic entirely and stick to glass.

Please do your own research if this subject is of interest to you.... I definetly don't have all the answers.

best wishes

9 COMMENTS~THANK YOU:

Baino said...

You can't win really can you. I don't buy bottled water but I wonder what my tupperware water jug is made out of and how much energy it took to make my lovely glass water jug. At least the only things I microwave are peas and rice and both in a pyrex bowl. *sigh*

Amanda said...

you're right to suggest only using glass when microwaving. even if it doesn't melt, there's just something that doesn't seem right about putting plastic in a m'wave.

thanks for this comprehensive rundown on which plastics are safe vs. not safe.

miruspeg said...

Thanks for posting your research Robyn, it was very interesting and informative.
It's really no wonder that diseases like cancer are running rampant in our society and on our planet.
Peggy xxxxx

ds said...

I agree. No plastic in the microwave. Ever.

secret agent woman said...

I've read this before, but I think I'll print out the list as an easy reference.

Lori ann said...

Another great list and info Robyn. Thank you for all the energy you put into caring so much to make our world and everyone in it, safe.

p.s. i don't use a microwave.

xxx

rosaria said...

Very valuable information, indeed. Keep up the good work, Robyn.

Snowbrush said...

I heard a few years ago that the canteens I was using all contained BPAs (I don't remember what number they were), so I took them all down to my local outfitter who cheerfully traded them for #7s. Then I heard that they weren't so good either ("a mixed bag," as you put it), but screw it, I'm keeping them because I don't use them that much anymore anyway.

Thanks for the information.

Flossie said...

Thanks for your list Robyn. I don't, like Lori Ann, own a microwave, and prefer to let things defrost in the fridge or cook in the oven. Rebel, I know! Photos of the Pacific vortex should stop everyone in their tracks. Oh for the days of glass milk bottles with their foil tops.