When selecting plastic products, especially those used for food or health-related purposes, understanding the recycling numbers printed on plastic containers is crucial. These numbers, usually found inside the triangular recycling symbol, indicate the type of plastic used. Not all plastics are created equal - some are safer than others.
Plastics to Be Cautious About:
Plastic #3 (PVC) and Plastic #7 (Other) are generally considered the types to avoid, especially for food, drink, or pharmaceutical applications.
🔴 Plastic #3 – PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
Common Uses: Plumbing pipes, cling wrap, some bottles.
Why to Avoid: PVC can release harmful chemicals like phthalates and vinyl chloride, especially when heated. These substances have been linked to hormone disruption and other health risks.
Not recommended for food storage or medical use.
⚠️ Plastic #7 – Other (Mixed Plastics or Polycarbonate)
Common Uses: Baby bottles, large water bottles, food containers.
Why to Avoid: This group includes polycarbonate, which can leach bisphenol A (BPA) - a substance linked to hormone imbalance and reproductive issues.
Note: Some #7 plastics are safer bioplastics, but unless specifically labeled BPA-free, it's better to avoid this category for food use.
Safer Alternatives
If you're packaging food, supplements, or pharmaceuticals, look for these safer plastics:
#1 PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) – Safe for single-use beverage bottles.
#2 HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) – Widely used for milk jugs, medicine bottles, and supplement jars. FDA-approved for food contact.
#5 PP (Polypropylene) – Used in yogurt containers and medicine bottle caps. Heat-resistant and BPA-free.