Bottled water may seem like a safe and convenient choice, but not all brands are created equal.
From hidden contaminants to misleading labels, there’s more to bottled water than meets the eye.
If you want to ensure the water you’re drinking is truly safe and high-quality, it’s important to know what to look for.
One critical factor is the type of plastic used for the bottle, indicated by the numbers and letters near the recycling symbol.
Different types of plastic can affect your health and the environment.
Here’s a guide to what these symbols mean, along with other essential tips to make an informed choice.
Understanding the Recycling Codes on Bottled Water
1. PET or PETE (Polyethylene Terephthalate, Recycling Code #1)
- Common Use: Most disposable water bottles are made from PET or PETE.
- Pros: Lightweight and widely recyclable.
- Cons: Designed for single use; prolonged reuse or exposure to heat can cause chemicals to leach into the water.
2. HDP or HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene, Recycling Code #2)
- Common Use: Milk jugs, some reusable water bottles, and thicker plastic containers.
- Pros: Considered one of the safest plastics, with minimal risk of leaching chemicals.
- Cons: Less commonly used for single-use water bottles.
3. PVC or 3V (Polyvinyl Chloride, Recycling Code #3)
- Common Use: Food wraps, plumbing pipes, and some beverage containers.
- Pros: Durable and versatile.
- Cons: Known to leach harmful chemicals like phthalates, which are linked to hormone disruption. Best avoided for food and water storage.
4. LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene, Recycling Code #4)
- Common Use: Flexible plastics like squeezable bottles, plastic bags, and food wraps.
- Pros: Less likely to leach harmful chemicals.
- Cons: Not commonly used for water bottles.
5. PP (Polypropylene, Recycling Code #5)
- Common Use: Yogurt containers, reusable water bottles, and straws.
- Pros: Heat-resistant and considered safe for repeated use.
- Cons: Less commonly found in disposable water bottles.
6. PS (Polystyrene, Recycling Code #6)
- Common Use: Styrofoam cups and takeout containers.
- Pros: Lightweight and inexpensive.
- Cons: Known to leach styrene, a potential carcinogen. Avoid for food and water storage.
7. Other or PC (Polycarbonate, Recycling Code #7)
- Common Use: Large reusable water jugs, baby bottles, and some sports bottles.
- Pros: Can be durable and reusable.
- Cons: Often contains BPA, a chemical linked to hormone disruption. Look for “BPA-Free” labels if choosing this type of plastic.
What to Look For in Bottled Water Plastics
- Prioritize HDPE (#2) or PP (#5): These are considered the safest plastics for water storage.
- Be Cautious with PET (#1): Fine for single-use, but avoid reusing these bottles.
- Avoid PVC (#3), PS (#6), and PC (#7): These plastics pose the highest health risks due to chemical leaching.
Other Key Things to Check When Buying Bottled Water
1. The Source of the Water
Ensure the label specifies whether the water comes from a spring, artesian well, or municipal tap.
2. BPA-Free Packaging
Look for bottles labeled “BPA-Free” to avoid hormone-disrupting chemicals.
3. pH Level
Choose water with a neutral or slightly alkaline pH (around 7–8.5) for optimal hydration and health.
4. Certifications
Look for labels showing compliance with NSF, IBWA, FDA, or EPA standards.
When buying bottled water, understanding the type of plastic used is as important as the water itself.
By checking the recycling code near the symbol and choosing safer plastics like HDPE (#2) or PP (#5), you can protect your health and minimize your environmental impact.
Share this article to help others make smarter, safer choices about their bottled water!