Safe Plastic Containers for Water & Food

Know which plastic containers are safest for holding food and beverages.

Although scientists disagree on the dangers of plastics, the safety of plastic food and beverage containers can generally be identified by the recycling code number stamped on the bottom of the container.

Safe Plastics

PET or PETE containers are considered the safest plastic for one-time use only.

Although #1 Polyethylene terephthalate (PET or PETE) containers are considered the safest plastic for one-time use, they are not recommended for reuse, because they are porous and absorb bacteria. The plastics considered safest for holding food and water are #2 high-density polyethylene (HDPE), #4 low-density polyethylene (LDPE), and #5 polypropylene (PP).

Potentially Unsafe Plastics

Some food and beverage containers are made of potentially harmful chemicals.

Some food and beverage containers made of clear or colored polycarbonate plastic include hormone-disruptive chemicals called bisphenol-A (BPA) and/or phthalates. Such containers are typically identified by the number 3, 6 or 7 on the bottom.

Health Recommendations

Try wrapping snacks or sandwiches in waxed paper, rather than plastic bags.

Avoid plastic containers made from polycarbonate and phthalates. Use plates rather than plastic in the microwave. Store food in glass or stainless steel containers. Use stainless steel bottles or water glasses for beverages. Make your own sauces and canned goods in glass canning jars. Wrap snacks or sandwiches in waxed paper or washable fabric bags instead of plastic baggies.

References

• National Geographic Green Guide: Safest Reusable Plastics for Holding Food and Water
• Scientific American: Plastic (Not) Fantastic: Food Containers Leach a Potentially Harmful Chemical
• WebMD: Pots, Pans and Plastics: A Shopper's Guide to Food Safety
• The New York Times: A Hard Plastic Is Raising Hard Questions
• Canadian Living: Are Plastic Drinking Bottles Bad for Your Health?

Resources

• Eating Well: Are Plastics Safe?
• University of Nebraska Cooperative Extension: Kitchen Food Safety: Bags, Bottles & Beyond
• Healthy Child: Five Easy Steps
• U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services: Bisphenol A (BPA) Information for Parents
• USDA: Cooking Safely in the Microwave Oven