In the recent past, we see that there is a tremendous increase in the number of people suffering from cancers, impaired fertility, insulin resistance early-onset of puberty, PCOS and host of other neurological / behavioral problems. Many factors contribute in deterioration of health, one among which is the use of toxic plastic. Plastics have made our lives easier; however, they are not healthy.
BPA or bisphenol A is a chemical compound that is found in the manufacture of baby bottles, plastic goggles and other reusable plastic containers. Exposure to BPA has been linked to variety of diseases, some of which, are life threatening. Since we are accustomed to use these colorful plastics, it will be difficult to remove them from our lives. However, learning about recycling symbols on plastic containers will help you to keep away from hazardous plastic that are potentially dangerous for human use.
Plastics to Avoid
Number 3
Completely avoid bottles and packs that have the 3 as the recycling number. These containers have vinyl or PVC . Such plastics release high toxic substances into the food and drink. These are commonly found in food packaging and cooking oil bottles. You are at high risk especially when you heat these containers – such as in microwave, and dishwasher.
Number 6
Number 6 plastics are found in cartons, disposable cups, trays and containers. You may be sipping or eating poison since they release toxic substances into the food or drink. Never heat such plastic containers for your safe health.
Number 7
Even though plastics containing this number are considered safe, there is no study to prove that no level of exposure to BPA is truly safe. Baby bottles, water bottles and food containers often have this number. You must worry especially if the bottles are rigid since they consist hard polycarbonate variety. Research studies show that presence of polycarbonate in human body can cause hormonal disruptions. It is no wonder why we come across behavioral and early onset of puberty in children!
So which numbers are safe for human use?
Number 1
You can notice this number on soft drink bottles, water bottles, food trays, vegetable and food containers. These plastics contain PET or PETE substance, which is a low risk for the release of toxic substances.
Number 2
Number 2 plastics have HDPE (High density polyethylene) which is again safe for human use as it carries lower risk of draining of toxic substances into food or drink. You can find them on cleaner bottles, trash cans, shopping bags, milk jugs, juice bottles and yogurt tubs. Such plastics are easily recycled into other goods.
Number 5
Number 5 group of plastics contain PP (polypropylene) that are easily recycle and have high melting point. These are often used in containers such as medicine, syrup bottles, straws and yogurt containers.
So, do keep an eye on the recycling symbol on the plastic container before you use or purchase a plastic container. Make your life BPA-free by switching to high-grade stainless steel, wood, glass and ceramic containers.
