Experts
have reached a consensus and recommend consumers avoid these varieties of
plastics–identified by a triangle and number on the bottom of most
containers–for the following reasons:
- #3
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) commonly contains di-2-ehtylhexyl phthalate
(DEHP), an endocrine disruptor and probable human carcinogen, as a
softener. - #6
Polystyrene (PS) may leach styrene, a possible endocrine disruptor and
human carcinogen, into water and food. - #7
Polycarbonate contains the hormone disruptor bisphenol-A, which can leach
out as bottles age, are heated, or exposed to acidic solutions.
Unfortunately, #7 is used in most baby bottles and five-gallon water jugs
and in many reusable sports bottles.