BusyBodyHealth

Which Plastic Bottles are Safe to reuse?

#1 PET or PETE (polyethylene terephthalate)^{1 3}

#2 HDPE (high density polyethylene)

#4 LDPE (low density polyethylene)

#5 PP (polypropylene)

Which Bottles Not to Reuse?

#1 - only recommended for one time use; do not refill^{2 3}

#3 (PVC)³

#6 (Styrene)

#7 (polycarbonate)

What is BPA? Why is it Bad for You?

Bisphenol A - is a zenoestrogen, known to disrupt the endocrine system, which disturbes the hormonal messaging system in our bodies. Synthetic zenoestrogen are linked to breast cancers and uterine cancers in women. It may also cause decreased testosterone levels in men.  As you can imagine, when it is consumed by babies and young children, it could induce devestating effects on them. BPA may also be linked to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. 

See more studies on the endocrine system Environmental Health Perspectives Journal.

Nalgene, the company that manufactures the lexan water bottles also makes #2 HDPE bottles in the same sizes and shapes, so we have a viable alternative.

Reference:

1. http://www.factsonpet.com/frequently-asked-questions/
2. http://trusted.md/blog/vreni_gurd/2007/03/29/plastic_water_bottles#axzz2EhZFWiAM
3. http://www.nrdc.org/thisgreenlife/0902.asp