Could you go a day without consuming food or water that has touched plastic?

For me, it would be nearly impossible. Plastics are everywhere, and it would be extremely difficult to go completely without them.

That being said, not all plastics are created equal. Some are loaded with toxic chemicals, and others are actually safe.

In this newsletter, I’ll give you a simple guide on using resin identification codes to identify safe and unsafe plastic.

What Makes Plastics So Bad?

Two main things make plastic so toxic: phthalates and BPA.

Phthalates are tiny particles that are spread throughout plastic products.

These are known endocrine disruptors, which can lead to hormonal problems especially in males.

Exposure to phthalates is associated with adverse effects on the liver, kidneys, and lungs, and potential links to asthma and allergies.

Bisphenol-based compounds (BPA, BPS, etc.) are harmful because they leach into food and beverages particularly under heat.

These chemicals are also endocrine disruptors, mimicking estrogen and potentially leading to hormonal imbalances and related health issues like reproductive disorders and increased cancer risk.

Exposure to bisphenols is linked to cardiovascular problems and obesity, as these compounds interfere with fat regulation in the body.

Resin Identification Codes

Resin identification codes are the small triangle codes on plastic products.

The plastic industry uses them to identify what the core ingredient of the plastic is.

You can use them to differentiate between toxic plastics and safe plastics. Here is a short guide on how to use them:

Bad Codes

#1: PETE/PET, or polyethylene terephthalate.

It is commonly found in water bottles, heatable pre-prepared food containers, clear cups.

This plastic is very weak and leaches very easily, so should be avoided.

#3 - PVC, or polyvinyl chloride

It is commonly found in most shrink wraps, shower curtains, cooking oil bottles, synthetic leather, medical bags, and medical tubing.

When heated, this leaches gasses like hydrochloric acid which is a lung irritant.

Avoid PVC. Replace synthetic leather with the real thing and the plastic shower curtain with cotton.

#6 - PS, or polystyrene

This is styrofoam. It is commonly found in styrofoam cups, coolers, egg cartons, and takeaway containers.

When heated, this releases styrene, which is toxic, especially for your nervous system.

#7 - “other”

It is commonly found in water bottles and baby milk bottles.

This typically contains BPA. Even if it says BPA-free, it can contain other bisphenol-based plastics like BPS. Avoid this entirely.

OK Codes

#4 - LDPE, or low-density polyethylene.

It is commonly found in cling wraps, plastic bags, dry cleaning bags, produce bags, and squeezable sauce bottles.

This doesn’t handle heat well and melts at 120° F. This still leaches, but is better than most other plastics. Use it when you can’t find something else.

Good Codes

#2: HDPE, or high-density polyethylene.

It is commonly found in protein shaker cups, toys, outdoor piping, and detergent bottles.

This is a strong plastic that is less likely to leach (although it still can). This is a much better option than most plastics, but glass and stainless steel are still superior.

#5 - PP, or polypropylene.

It is commonly found in toys, furniture, carpets, and some kitchen containers.

This is the best plastic you can find. It is heat resistant until 320° F and doesn’t leach chemicals. If you cannot use glass or stainless steal, polypropylene is fine.

Plastic Substitutes

As a general rule of thumb, always look for #2 or #5, and try to avoid everything else entirely.

Now that you know which plastics to avoid, what can you use instead?

Glass and stainless steel are great alternatives for food storage and cooking.

Silicone is also a safe option, as long as it's FDA food-grade or 100% platinum silicone. However, be aware that silicone leaches chemicals when heated to 300° F.

Here are a few more tips to reduce your exposure to harmful plastics:

- Use a carbon filter for your drinking water

- Opt for a cotton or linen shower curtain instead of vinyl

- Use glass when microwaving food

- Toss the nail polish 

- Ask your butcher to wrap meat directly in paper instead of plastic

By making these small changes and being mindful of the plastics you use, you can significantly reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals and protect your health.

Until next time,

Kashif Khan

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Information on this site is provided for informational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical advice from your physician or other medical professional. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing any medication. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, promptly contact your regular health care provider.