Alexei Volkov
Plastic containers are labelled with numbers that indicate the type of plastic they are made from and whether they are safe for food and drink storage. These numbers are important for consumers to understand, as they can help them make safer choices for their health and the environment. While some plastics are considered safer than others, the use of all plastics should be limited where possible, and it is generally advised to avoid cooking, heating, or reheating food in plastic containers.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Safest plastics | 2, 4, 5 |
| Safer when used once | 1 |
| Avoid | 3, 6, 7 |
| Food-grade plastics | HDPE, LDPE, PC, PETE, PP |
| FDA-approved plastics | HDPE, LDPE, PC, PETE, PP, acrylic, nylon |
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What You'll Learn
Numbers 2, 4, and 5 are the safest plastic container numbers
The numbers on plastic containers indicate the type of plastic they are made from and whether they are safe for food storage and recycling. Numbers 2, 4, and 5 are considered the safest plastic container numbers for food storage.
Number 2 plastic, also known as HDPE (high-density polyethylene), is one of the safest types of plastic for food and drink storage. It has a high strength-to-density ratio, making it durable and reliable. HDPE products can withstand heating and freezing, and they can be easily recycled up to 10 times.
Number 4 plastic, or LDPE (low-density polyethylene), is another safe option for food storage. It is known for its flexibility and softness and is often used for squeezable bottles, plastic bags, and packaging that requires toughness and pliability. While LDPE is generally safe, it is not as widely recycled as HDPE, and only a small percentage of it is recycled.
Number 5 plastic, commonly known as PP (polypropylene), is frequently used in food packaging. It is considered microwave-safe, but it is important to know that even microwavable-safe plastic can cause asthma and hormone disruption. Therefore, it is advisable to substitute plastic containers with glass wherever possible.
While Numbers 2, 4, and 5 are considered the safest for food storage, it is important to minimize the use of plastic around food. Glass, cast iron, stainless steel, and ceramic are recommended for cooking and storage to reduce exposure to potentially harmful chemicals. Additionally, boiling and filtering tap water can significantly reduce the amount of microplastics consumed.
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Numbers 1, 3, 6, and 7 are unsafe and must be avoided
Plastic containers with numbers 1, 3, 6, and 7 are unsafe and must be avoided. These numbers indicate the type of plastic and its recyclability, with certain numbers also linked to health issues.
Number 1 plastic, or PET/PETE, is considered safe for single use only. Reusing these containers or exposing them to heat can be dangerous. PET plastic is widely used for water bottles, food jars, containers, and bottles for salad dressing, oil, and mouthwash.
Number 3 plastics, or V/PVC, are unsafe due to the harmful byproducts created during their manufacturing, disposal, and destruction. Styrene, for example, can leach from polystyrene and affect the respiratory, nervous, and gastrointestinal systems with long-term exposure. PVC is also impractical to recycle due to different additives.
Number 6 plastic, or PS/styrofoam, should be avoided or at least reused as it is challenging to recycle.
Number 7 plastics, labelled as "Others," cover a wide range of materials, and their health effects depend on their chemical makeup. Bisphenol A (BPA), for instance, is a potential endocrine disruptor and can negatively impact the immune, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems.
It is important to note that all plastic products can leach toxic chemicals when heated or damaged. Therefore, it is recommended to transition to alternative materials like metal and glass whenever possible.
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Number 2 plastic is called HDPE and is safe for reuse
Plastic containers are labelled with numbers that indicate the type of plastic they are made from and whether they are safe for food use and/or recyclable. Number 2 plastic, also called HDPE (high-density polyethylene), is considered one of the safest forms of plastic for food storage and reuse.
HDPE is a stiff, durable, and strong plastic with a high strength-to-density ratio, resulting in superb wear resistance. It is lightweight and easily moulded into various shapes, making it versatile for different products. HDPE products are also resistant to heating and freezing, making them suitable for use in different weather conditions.
Number 2 plastic is widely accepted at most recycling centres and can be recycled up to 10 times. Recycled HDPE is used to create new containers, as well as other items such as pipes, lumber, toys, lawn furniture, pens, and floor tiles.
While Number 2 plastic is considered safe for reuse, it is important to note that all plastics can potentially leach toxic chemicals when heated or damaged. Therefore, it is recommended to minimise the use of plastic around food and opt for alternative materials like glass, cast iron, stainless steel, or ceramic whenever possible.
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Number 4 plastic, LDPE, is safe but not environmentally friendly
Plastic containers are labelled with numbers that indicate the type of plastic and its recyclability. Number 4 plastic, also known as LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene), is considered relatively safe for food storage. LDPE does not contain harmful chemicals such as Bisphenol A (BPA) or phthalates, which are linked to adverse health effects. It is also resistant to acids, bases, oils, and other chemicals, making it a durable and flexible option for packaging and consumer goods.
However, LDPE poses challenges from an environmental perspective. Firstly, LDPE has a slow decomposition rate, contributing to plastic pollution if not disposed of properly. Its lightweight nature can cause it to blow away from landfills, leading to environmental damage. Additionally, LDPE's recyclability is limited due to its complex recycling process, with only a small percentage being recycled and a limited number of recycling plants accepting it.
To minimise the environmental impact of LDPE, it is recommended to reuse LDPE containers multiple times before disposal. Recycling LDPE, especially through specialist soft plastic recycling drop-off locations, helps keep waste out of landfills and saves energy. Opting for eco-friendly alternatives and responsible disposal methods can also reduce the environmental footprint associated with LDPE.
While Number 4 plastic is generally safe for food storage, it is important to avoid heating or microwaving food in these containers. All plastic products can leach toxic chemicals when heated or damaged, so substituting plastic with glass or metal is advisable where possible.
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Number 5 plastic is microwave-safe but may cause asthma
Plastic containers are labelled with numbers that indicate the type of plastic and its recyclability. Number 5 plastic, also known as polypropylene (PP), is considered microwave-safe due to its high heat tolerance and resistance to warping, cracking, or melting. However, it is important to note that even microwave-safe plastic can pose potential health risks.
Some studies have found that using plastic containers in the microwave, including those labelled as microwave-safe, can contribute to the development of asthma and hormone disruption. The risk of chemical leaching increases when microwaving foods high in fat or sugar, as they can reach higher temperatures than water-based foods. Therefore, it is recommended to substitute plastic containers with glass or ceramic alternatives, which are safer and more durable.
While number 5 plastic is generally considered safe for food storage, it is always advisable to minimise the use of plastic around food. Glass, cast iron, stainless steel, and ceramic are preferable options for cooking, reheating, and storage. These materials do not carry the same risks associated with chemical leaching or overheating as plastics do.
It is worth noting that not all plastics are created equal when it comes to microwave safety. Plastics with recycling codes 3, 6, and 7 should be avoided, especially for food and drink storage. Number 1 plastic should be stored in a cool environment and not reused, while number 2 plastic is not recommended for microwave use as it can melt or deform. Number 4 plastic is not typically considered microwave-safe and can melt at higher temperatures.
Overall, while number 5 plastic is deemed microwave-safe, it is important to be mindful of the potential health risks associated with using any type of plastic in the microwave. Substituting plastic with alternative materials, whenever possible, is a healthier and more environmentally friendly choice.
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Frequently asked questions
The numbers on plastic containers indicate what type of plastic they are made of and if they are safe for food and drinks. The numbers also indicate if the plastic is recyclable.
Plastic containers with the numbers 2, 4, and 5 are considered safe for food storage. Number 1 is also safe for single use. These containers can store food without any toxic chemicals infiltrating.
Plastic containers with the numbers 3, 6, and 7 must be avoided for food storage as they may contain harmful compounds and leak chemicals into the food. Number 1 containers should also not be reused as they become dangerous.
Even if a plastic container is labelled as microwave safe, it is better to substitute it with glass. Plastic containers can leach toxic chemicals when heated or damaged.
