The Canadian government has finally proposed that a chemical commonly found in plastic water bottles, baby bottles and the lining of some food cans should be designated “toxic” under Canadian law. Canada is the first country in the world to consider designating the chemical, Bisphenol A, as hazardous to human health and the environment. What’s more alarming is that the Centers for Disease Control released a study that found 94 percent of the people tested had been exposed to BPA, so most of us have this hazardous chemical in our bodies.
While no legislation has been passed in Canada yet, we can take some steps in eliminating this chemical from our ‘diet’. Each plastic bottle is designated with a number inside the triangle recycling symbol imprinted on the bottom of the bottle. Be aware of the types of plastics you encounter in your daily use by following this information guide.
Plastic by the Numbers
Each plastic bottle is designated with a number inside the triangle recycling symbol imprinted on the bottom of the bottle. Be aware of the types of plastics you encounter in your daily use by following this guide.
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HDP (high-density polyethylene): safe |
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PP (polypropylene): safe |
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PETE (polyethylene terephthatate): alert; possible antimony trioxide |
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PVC (polyvinly chloride): red alert; may contain BPA, as well as phthalates |
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Other (polycarbonate): likely contains BPA |
