Water & Groundwater Safety
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Are Plastic Bottles Safe?
Plastic bottles are often used to carry water. They offer the advantages of being lightweight and unbreakable. However, an ingredient in some plastic polycarbonate bottles, bisphenol A (BPA), may leach out of the plastic and into the water under extreme heat, according to a recent report issued by the National Toxicology Program (NTP). There is some concern that this chemical may have an impact on the proper functioning of the prostate gland, mammary gland, and earlier onset of puberty in females. Even though the results are not conclusive, the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, which includes the NTP, recommends limiting exposure to this chemical by doing the following:- Don't microwave polycarbonate plastic containers.
- Polycarbonate containers that contain BPA usually have a #7 on the bottom.
- Better to use containers with #2, 4 or 5 on the bottom.
- Reduce your use of canned foods.
- When possible, opt for glass, porcelain, or stainless steel containers, particularly for hot foods or liquids
- Use baby bottles that are BPA-free
