Safety in Numbers – Which Types of Plastics To Avoid

I’m not sure why I didn’t see this before. Figuring out all of the numbers stamped into the bottom of plastic bottles and packages rattles my brain and turns into one of those “whose on first?” type of discussionswhen my friends and I get together and watch our kidsfightplay.

It turns out that really, there are just 3 numbers to remember:

763

Just like remembering a phone number…right? It turns out that this is the area code for Minneapolis, which if you live in Minnesota may make it easier to remember. Otherwise it's just one of those oddball bits of information to store somewhere in the "misc." file in your brain.

Anyway...back to scary plastics.



TheDaily Greenfortunately, has a nice description of which PVC plastics to avoid and why:

Number 7 Plastics

Miscellaneous

Found in: Baby bottles, three- and five-gallon water bottles, certain food containers

A wide range of plastic resins that don't fit into the other six categories are lumped into number 7. Some are quite safe, but the ones to worry about are the hard polycarbonate varieties, as found in various drinking containers (like Nalgene bottles) and rigid plastic baby bottles.

Why?Studies have shown polycarbonate can leach bisphenol A, a potential hormone disruptor, into liquids. According to Trasande, no level of bisphenol A exposure is known to be truly safe, and in August a government panel expressed 'some concern' that the ingredient causes neural and behavioral problems in children.

Number 6 Plastics

PS (polystyrene)

Found in: Disposable plates and cups, meat trays, egg cartons, carry-out containers

Number 6 plastics (polystyrene) are made into soft Styrofoam-style cups as well as rigid foams and hard plastic products, so remember to look for those little numbers in the arrows (don't feel bad if you need a magnifying glass). Avoid using them as much as possible.

Why?Number 6 plastics can release potentially toxic breakdown products (including styrene). Get this: particularly when heated! That insulated coffee cup -- the one that 'knows' when to keep your drink warm -- doesn't seem so smart anymore does it?

Number 3 Plastics

V (Vinyl) or PVC

Found in: Cooking oil bottles, clear food packaging

Why?Number 3 plastics may release toxic breakdown products (including pthalates) into food and drinks.

The risk is highest when containers start wearing out, are put through the dishwasher or when they are heated (including microwaved). PVC manufacturing can release highly toxic dioxins into the environment, and the materials can off-gas toxic plasticizers into your home.

Thanks Guys!

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