I read labels and now I turn it upside down before I make a decision as to the products I place in my trolley !
You will have noticed a number stamped into the bottom of products that you have purchased off the supermarket shelf and accompanying consumable packaging. These numbers represent a plastics identification code. A healthy home helper …
“The Plastics Identification Code continues to be one of the most successful and enduring Product Stewardship programs run by industry. The simple, effective "1 to 7" numbering system identifies the resin composition of plastic containers (and other items intended for recycling). This voluntary coding system has been a key element in the successful collection, recovery and management of used plastics in Australia.” (PACIA)
The plastics coding scheme used and administered by PACIA is a voluntary initiative and although it assists consumers to effectively recycle plastic consumables it also allows us to identify the type of plastic materials that our products are made from or packaged in. These identification codes can assist us to avoid plastics that may contain ingredients that have been linked with health concerns.
AVOID :
Code 3 – PPVC or UPVC (polyvinyl chloride – plasticised and un-plasticised)
Commonly used for food storage bottles such as cooking oil, cordials, shampoo and detergents, including some food wrappings.
TIP : Considered the most damaging to the environment of all plastics and can leach phthalate chemicals that have been linked to many health concerns. Avoid PVC items.
Code 6 – PS or UPS (polystyrene and expanded polystyrene)
Commonly a ridged plastic used for take away containers, white ridged coffee cups, meat trays, plastic utensils.
TIP : Polystyrene can leach styrene a possible human carcinogen
Code 7 – PLA or polylactic acid - Used for “Other” incorporating new plastics. Items may include baby bottles..
TIP : Code 7 represents items that are not recyclable and given the unknown better to avoid.
ALTERNATIVE:
Code 1 – PET or PETE (polyethylene terephthalate)
Commonly used for soft drink & fruit juice bottles & medicine containers.
TIP : repeated use of the same plastic could cause leaching of DEHP a chemical that has been linked to endocrine (hormonal) disruption.
Code 2 – HDPE (high density polyethylene)
Commonly used for detergent bottles, juice, milk , sports bottles.
TIP : This plastic is a better alternative to number 7 that may also be used for the same products.
Code 4 – LDPE (low density polypropylene)
Commonly soft flexible plastic such as used for garbage bags, wrapping films, thin plastic carry bags.
TIP : Considered reasonably safe but avoid heating
Code 5 – PP (polypropylene)
Commonly a hard but flexible plastic that is used for food packaging such as ice cream and dairy/dessert containers, drinking straws.
TIP : Considered reasonable safe but avoid heating
Plastics contain phthalate chemicals (softeners) and other ingredients that have been linked to health concerns. Bisphenol A (BPA) is one ingredient that has been linked to disruptive hormonal concerns, early puberty in girls, developmental toxicity for fetuses and children. There are many reports that raise concerns over the cumulative effects of chemicals that can leach or off gass from plastic products.
Many argue that our lives have been enhanced and made much easier with the use of plastics. There is much to be said for the lack of testing on chemical migration from plastic to humans and the perpetual impact these products have on our environment and human health.
BEST OPTION :
Opt for natural products and fibres where possible, choose glass, ceramic and stainless steel as alternatives for food storage. Support manufacturers and suppliers who consciously support plastic alternatives as they are looking after you and the planet for your children. Your purchasing decisions, daily practices and habits in the home with plastics may be impacting on your health. Creating a healthy home supports good health and the health of the environment.
