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The Secret Language of Bottles: Decoding the Numbers on Your Favorite Drinks

Most food containers made of plastic have a triangle symbol with an arrow and a number in the center at the bottom. This often-overlooked symbol is of utmost importance as it indicates whether the container is safe for reuse and the ideal storage temperature.

Administrator

6 August, 2024

Have you ever noticed the numbers enclosed in a triangle on the bottom of plastic bottles and containers? Those numbers are more significant than you might think! If you’re curious, read on to discover what they mean.

Watch this video: Do you know the meaning of the numbers on the bottom of plastic bottles and food containers?

1: PET Plastic (Polyethylene Terephthalate)

This type of plastic is commonly used for bottles and containers. It is considered relatively safe for human health. However, it is not recommended for reuse, especially for storing food or liquids with temperatures above 70°C, as it can deform and release harmful substances.

2: HDPE Plastic

High-density polyethylene plastic is often used for products like detergent bottles and toys. Experts consider it one of the safest plastics and suitable for food storage. However, it can be challenging to remove stains and bacteria, so make sure to sterilize it with boiling water before reuse.

3: PVC Plastic

Polyvinyl chloride plastic is commonly used for food packaging and is known for its low cost, high flexibility, and heat resistance up to 81°C. However, when it breaks down, it can negatively impact the environment and human health.

4: LDPE Plastic – Low-Density Polyethylene

This type of plastic is widely used for food packaging, and while there is no definitive evidence of its harmfulness, experts advise against reusing these containers for food storage.

5: PP Plastic (Polypropylene)

Polypropylene is a rigid, safe, and heat-resistant plastic commonly used for products like milk and water bottles. Its high heat resistance makes it suitable for reuse and recycling.

6: PS Plastic (Polystyrene)

Polystyrene plastic is often used for disposable containers and has excellent heat and cold resistance. However, at high temperatures, it can release toxic substances that may cause infertility or cancer. Therefore, it is recommended to transfer food to other containers before heating.

7: Other Plastics (PC, Tritan, BPA)

Number 7 represents all other types of plastics, with the most common being polycarbonate (PC). PC plastic is typically used in industrial products but can also be found in baby bottles and food containers. It is crucial to avoid reusing or recycling this type of plastic for household purposes.

Tritan plastic is known for its glass-like transparency and durability. It is often used for water bottles, food containers, and drinking cups and is considered safe for human health.

BPA, or Bisphenol A, is a chemical used in polycarbonate plastic products. Some studies suggest that high levels of BPA can be harmful to health. However, the FDA has set safe exposure limits, and many products now use BPA-free materials.

If you intend to reuse plastic bottles or containers for food storage, opt for those made from HDPE, LDPE, PP, or PET plastics. For PET bottles, remember to sterilize them with boiling water before reuse.

Frequently asked questions

The numbers on beverage bottles, usually embossed or printed on the bottom, indicate the manufacturing process, material type, and sometimes, the manufacturer. These codes are not mandatory but are used by most manufacturers for quality control and recycling purposes.

The codes vary depending on the manufacturer and the country. For example, in the United States, plastic bottles often have a triangle of arrows with a number inside, indicating the type of plastic used. Glass bottles may have an ‘OB’ or ‘PB’ code, indicating ‘One-Time Use Bottle’ or ‘Refillable Bottle’. European bottles may follow the European Plastic Recycling System, with numbers from 1 to 7 inside a recycling symbol.

No, these codes are not directly related to expiration or production dates. They are solely for indicating the type of material and the manufacturing process. Expiration and production dates are usually indicated separately on the bottle or its packaging.

Understanding these codes can help consumers make informed choices about the products they purchase. It allows consumers to identify the type of material used, which can be important for health, environmental, and recycling concerns. Additionally, it provides insight into the manufacturing process and the intended use of the bottle (one-time use or refillable).

Yes, there are online guides and apps available that can assist in decoding bottle codes. A simple online search for ‘bottle code decoder’ will provide you with various resources. Some apps offer convenient on-the-go decoding, while online guides may provide more detailed explanations of the different codes and their meanings.