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About the Safety of Plastic Food Containers

Plastic food and beverage containers are part of nearly everyone's daily lives, and many consumers have heard about the dangers of certain plastics. While there is some research that suggests plastic, specifically that made with bisphenol A (BPA), can adversely affect health, there is not sufficient evidence that it directly harms humans. Nevertheless, consumers and some companies have turned away from certain polycarbonates. Being well informed about the real risks associated with plastic containers will allow you to make healthy choices.

  1. BPA Defined

    • Bisphenol A (BPA) is compound found in many plastics, especially rigid transparent polycarbonates. According to David Biello in ScientificAmerican, BPA was first manufactured in 1891, and today the United States produces 2.3 billion pounds of it annually. BPA can be found in reusable water bottles, baby bottles, food storage containers, and the lining of soda and food cans. According to National Geographic's "The Green Guide," containers made with BPA are marked with the number 7.

    BPA Safety

    • There is not sufficient research involving humans to determine the long-term effects on BPA, though there are studies involving animals that suggest it may be detrimental to health. In 1936 researchers found that BPA mimics estrogen, which has since raised concerns about its impact on human reproductive health. According to Dr. Michael D. Shelby, who oversaw the National Toxicology Program report on BPA, there is no concrete proof that BPA adversely impacts reproduction (New York Times, April 2008). Steven Hentges of the American Chemistry Council states, "The science today supports the safety of BPA" (Scientific American, February 2008).

    More BPA Studies

    • In 2004, the CDC tested human urine samples and found 33 to 80 nanograms of BPA per kilogram of body weight in nearly all the subjects. Though this is significantly lower than 50 micrograms per kilogram of weight that the Environmental Protection Agency and European Food Safety Authority deem safe, the fact that nearly all participants had traces of BPA in their urine suggests constant exposure. Studies on rats that link BPA exposure to changes in mammary and prostate tissue, which may be related to cancer, were noted in the 2008 New York Times article.

    BPA Products Removed

    • Though direct evidence linking BPA and cancer in humans is not available, some companies and countries are taking action. Japanese manufacturers have been using natural resin instead of BPA to line cans since 1997 because BPA was found to be leaching out of baby bottles and formula containers. Walmart has withdrawn baby products containing BPA, and the reusable water bottle manufacturer, Nalgene, and baby product manufacturer, Platex, are no longer using the compound in their products according to a 2008 article in the New York Times.

    Safe Plastics

    • Safe plastics include high-density polyethylene (#2), low-density polyethylene (#4) and polypropylene (#5), which are used in most household plasticware products, according to PopSci.com and TheGreenGuide.com. It is best to check the packaging or container, though, because these brands might also carry products with BPA. It is also good practice to avoid microwaving plastic containers or putting hot substances in them, as heat accelerates chemical leaching, according to David Biello.

    Other Plastics

    • BPA is not the only compound to be cautious of, states PopSci.com. Polyethylene terephthalate (#1) is used in most soda bottles and deli containers. It is fine to use once, but can emit carcinogens if used repeatedly. Styrofoam (#6) is also associated with a slew of symptoms including skin, eye and lung irritation, depression, kidney malfunction, and nervous system damage. Deli leftovers and take-out, for example, should be transferred to and stored in safe containers to avoid these potential health issues.

    Alternatives

    • Many consumers choose not to use food containers containing BPA, including endocrine biologist Scott Belcher. To reduce your risk of consuming harmful compounds, buy frozen vegetables instead of canned, use glass, ceramic or stainless steel containers instead of plastic, and check products for BPA-free labels. Soups and stocks can also be purchased in cardboard cartons.

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