Know the Plastic Water Bottle Safety

Although the FDA has approved all plastics currently being used to package food, they might not all be safe. An estrogen-like compound in plastic could be posing risks to the brain development of infants and children. BPA, a component of polycarbonate plastic, can leach from baby bottles, water bottles and other hard plastic containers.

The biggest risk seems to be for fetuses, pregnant women, infants, and children. Low doses of BPA cause structural changes in the brain that trigger learning deficits and hyperactivity. There is also some concern that it harms the prostate gland and causes premature puberty. 

Not all plastics have been identified as unsafe. Out of the 7 types of plastics used in packaging, 4 are still considered safe. You can use the recycling number on the bottom of containers to identify the type of plastic being used.

Plastics To AVOID:

● #3 PVC or vinyl: Used in plastic wraps, food containers, soft bottles, wrappings for meat and cheese. It is made with chlorine and releases dioxins which have been linked to cancer (including breast and prostate), hormonal imbalances, high blood pressure, heart disease, autoimmune disease, weight problems, and chronic fatigue. 

Phthalates, which make the plastic flexible and used in products ranging from shampoo to floor coverings, have recently been cited in a study that linked their exposure to smaller genitals in infant boys and an increase in testicular cancer about adults.

● #6 Polystyrene or styrofoam: Used as takeout containers, plastics cups, and cutlery. Its components leach into fatty foods and are believed to interfere with hormones.

● #7 Misc/Other: category that includes polycarbonate (PC): Used for most clear-plastic bottles, including 5-gallon water bottles and baby bottles. When heated, they release BPA, a hormone disrupter that imitates the female hormone estradiol which may be linked to breast and ovarian cancer. The US Centers for Disesase Control and Prevention found BPA in the urine of 95% of Americans tested. 

Plastics Considered SAFE:

● #1 Polyethylene terephthalatePolyethylene terephthalate (PET or PETE)

● #2 High-density polyethyleneHigh-density polyethylene (HDPE)

● #4 Low-density polyethyleneLow-density polyethylene (LDPE)

● #5 Polypropylene (PP)

As conclusion, try avoiding plastic food containers as much as possible. Never put hot food in plastic or use plastic dishes in the microwave, as heat increases the leaching of BPA. It is also not recommended to reuse plastic water bottles because as they become worn or scratched, they leach more toxins.