Safe Plastic: A Reality Check
Myth: The recycling arrow on a plastic container means it’s recyclable.
Reality: Just because the container is stamped with a recycling symbol, this does not mean it’s recyclable. Commonly, only #1 and #2 with narrow necks are recyclable. Some communities do recycle other plastics so check with your local waste disposal company or municipality.
Myth: Plastic containers are safe to use in the microwave.
Reality: Petroleum-based chemicals are a key ingredient in plastic manufacturing. Studies show that these chemicals seep into the product when it’s heated, scratched or old, and in contact with fatty or oily foods.
Myth: If the product is not safe for humans or the environment, it wouldn’t be sold to the public.
Reality: Polycarbonates (#7), PVC (#3), and Polystyrene (#6) have been studied the most. Researchers are particularly concerned about a chemical found in #7 plastics - Biphenol A (BPA), detected in the urine of 95% adults sampled in a Center for Disease Control study. Another study done on mice revealed that BPA stimulates prostrate cancer cells, changes breast tissue, and causes spontaneous miscarriages and birth defects. The industry-funded studies for low-level exposure to BPA found no significant effects. Ninety percent of the government-funded studies did. Examples of plastic products labeled #7 are: baby bottles, clear “sippy” cups, “sport” and 5-gallon water bottles, clear plastic cutlery, and metal food can liners. In addition, the manufacturing process and incineration of plastic threatens clean air and water, and exposes workers to toxic chemicals.
Myth: Even containers labeled “microwave safe” are not safe to heat in the microwave.
Reality: “Microwave safe” containers are safer than other plastic containers used in microwaves. A safer choice would be to avoid heating up any plastic container. Use glass or ceramic containers free of metallic paint, but avoid covering with plastic wrap. DEHA (di(2-ethylhexyl)adipate) is a softener used in plastic products labeled with a #3 (i.e. cling wrap). It leaches into oily foods, and when heated. Studies show it negatively affects the liver, spleen, kidney, bone formation, and body weight.
Myth: All plastic food and water containers should be avoided.
Reality: It is especially risky when hormone-disrupting chemicals leach into our food and beverages. The safer choices for plastic food and beverage containers are numbers 1, 2, 4, and 5. Avoid numbers 3,6, and 7.
Plastic is a convenient, light weight, unbreakable and inexpensive option for packaging. Its widespread use is not going to stop. Instead, practice safe use to avoid the risks:
- • Instead of using cling wraps in the microwave, use wax paper, paper towels, or a non-plastic plate for covering foods;
- • Avoid microwaving fatty foods in plastic, there is a greater leaching potential;
- • Replace Styrofoam (#6) containers with paper, cardboard, or bio-based plastic;
- • Use non-PVC plastic wrap for packaging sandwiches, deli-foods, etc. If food does come into contact with PVC packaging, slice off a thin layer. It’s best not to let the plastic touch the food;
- • Choose a baby bottle made of glass, polyethylene (#1) or polypropylene (#5). If the plastic is not labeled, call the company. The toll free number is usually listed on the package. Although many “sippy” cups are made of polycarbonate (#7), there are cups made from #1 and #5 plastics (i.e. First Years Take & Toss and Playtex Sipster);
- • Wash out re-useable plastic drinking bottles with cool water, avoid harsh detergents, and wash daily;
- • Do not reuse #1 and #2 bottles, they are recommended for single use only;
- • Substitute whenever possible; and,
- • Contact manufacturers, urging them to replace polycarbonate, PVC and polystyrene with safer alternatives.
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