According to a recent New York Times article, "U.S. Panel Criticized as Overstating Cancer Risks," a government report is urging people to lessen exposure to potential cancer threats including the use of certain types of plastic food containers. Every plastic container has a number on the bottom indicating the type of plastic it contains. Since there are so many numbers, it's difficult to keep track of the difference between safe and harmful types of plastic.
Number 1
"Number 1" is typically found on water bottles and soft drinks. It is safe to consume the initial beverage from these bottles, but may be harmful to refill them. According to a Pioneer Press news article "Safe Plastics Primer: What Those Numbers on Containers Mean," the concern with reusing these bottles stems from the possibility that harmful bacteria will build up in the cracks and crevices. The plastic itself does not pose any known threat. To avoid the risk of unnecessary illness, use the bottles once and recycle them. If you're worried about the cost of purchasing so many water or soda bottles, simply purchase a glass or stainless steel container and refill it with filtered water or soda from a two-liter bottle.
Number 7
Plastic containers that have a number 7 on the bottom are the biggest cause for concern. This type of plastic contains a chemical called bisphenol A (BPA). According to the MSNBC news article "Plastic Bottles -- Are They Safe?" BPA could possibly cause brain problems in fetuses and children and prostate and breast problems in adults. Most manufacturers are coming out with products that say "BPA free" directly on the label---meaning they're safe for food and drink. It's wise to go through old containers and toss any with a number 7 on the bottom or use them to store non-food items.
Numbers 3 and 6
Researchers have not reached a verdict on containers that contain a number 3 or 6 on the bottom. These containers are composed of a chemical similar to BPA. Some feel this could be a cause for concern, but there is currently no evidence to confirm this. Until further research is conducted, it's wise to use these containers for non-food items.
Safe Plastic
Currently, the safest plastic for food containers is anything with a number 5 on the bottom. These containers are durable and free of toxins. Numbers 2 and 4 are also safe, but they are not as durable and are typically used for food storage bags, milk jugs and other items where the plastic is not likely to be reused.
