ARE PLASTIC FOOD CONTAINERS AND WATER BOTTLES SAFE FOR US TO USE?

The safety of plastic bottles and the plastic lining found in canned foods has attracted the attention of the media, spurred in part by several scientific and regulatory reviews of bisphenol A (BPA). BPA is a chemical commonly used in 1) polycarbonate plastics to make them rigid, shatterproof and heat-resistant, and 2) epoxy resins that coat metal products to help prevent corrosion. Because corrosion could cause leaching of metal or microbial contamination, plastic lining serves an important food safety function. Food-related materials using BPA include reusable plastic bottles and food containers, baby bottles, tableware, microwave ovenware, bottle tops and can liners. Polycarbonate plastic containers are typically hard and clear.

The plastic bottles for soft drinks, bottled water and other beverages are predominately PET (#1 recyclable), which does not contain BPA. PET is suited for lightweight, large-capacity and shatter-resistant containers. Tests have shown that any migration of PET components is well below safety levels; thus the FDA has concluded PET is safe for its intended use.

The FDA formed an agency-wide BPA task force in April 2008 to facilitate a research review of this "indirect" food additive. In July 2008, the EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) increased five-fold the safe intake level for BPA from the level established in 2002. The EFSA concluded that the human body has the ability to rapidly metabolize and eliminate BPA.

BPA can migrate from food and beverage containers; however, under real-life conditions (heating, sterilizing, dishwashing) any levels found in foods or beverages are well below standards of safety. Even the highest estimated intake is 100 times below the Tolerable Daily Intake established by the EFSA.

To minimize migration of plastic into foods and beverages and for general safety reasons, consumers should use packaging and containers only for their intended uses; for example, not reusing microwavable food packaging clearly marked for one-time use. Statements on packages that discourage reuse of bottled water containers are becoming commonplace. Keep in mind that even containers designed for reuse (microwavable containers and some sports water bottles) can harbor bacteria if foods or beverages are stored in them in conditions suitable for bacterial growth. For example, the primary concern with leaving an opened or reusable water bottle in a hot car is the potential for microbial contamination, not chemical leaching. All containers should be washed with hot soapy water and dried before reuse. Discontinue using any container that has visible surface damage.

BOTTOM LINE: The FDA has concluded that human exposure to plastics used in material intended to come in contact with foods and beverages is below levels that may cause health effects.