What Chemicals Are in Plastic Water Bottles?

Recent studies have raised concerns about the safety of plastic water bottles due to the chemicals that some types were found to contain. When choosing plastic water bottles, take the time to learn more about the different types and about the possible risks of chemical contamination associated with each one.

Bisphenol A

• Bisphenol A, or BPA, is a chemical compound that has been found in plastic water bottles and other products made from clear polycarbonate plastic. BPA has raised concerns because it has been shown to mimic the hormone estrogen. This can interfere with the body's natural hormone levels and may increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer. BPA has also been shown to affect brain development in studies of animals and is classified as an endocrine disruptor.

DEHP

• Single-use plastic water bottles, particularly those made with PET, may leach a chemical known as DEHA when washed or re-used. DEHA, a potential carcinogen, has been known to cause liver problems and may interfere with fetal development.

Safety Tips

• When in doubt, throw your single-use water bottles away after each use, or better yet, recycle them. Avoid filling plastic water bottles with hot liquids as well, since this has been shown to cause them to degrade more quickly and increase the risk of exposure to harmful chemicals.