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Q & A

Are Plastics Safe?

Can plastic containers transfer harmful chemicals to foods and drinks?

By Karen Ansel, R.D., for EatingWell July/August 2008

Safe or not? This disposable plastic water bottle is made from polyethylene terephthalate (PET or PETE), generally considered one of the most safe plastics. However reusable plastic containers and baby bottles made with polycarbonate plastics, which can contain the chemical bisphenol-A, are more controversial. Read on to learn more.

Can plastic containers transfer harmful compounds to foods and drinks?
—Joanna Grossman, Syracuse, NY

Likely you’re referring to the potential dangers of polycarbonate plastics—often used in reusable water bottles, clear plastic food-storage containers and some baby bottles. Polycarbonates contain bisphenol-A (BPA), an estrogenlike chemical also used in the linings of some food and drink cans. Studies link BPA to the development of precancerous lesions and abnormal development of reproductive systems in animals. While BPA can leach into food and drinks, whether it actually affects human health currently is not known.

What is known is that we’re all exposed to plenty of the chemical. In a 2005 study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control, 95 percent of people screened tested positive for BPA.

A study published in early 2008 in Toxicology Letters suggested that hot liquids and foods exacerbate leaching in BPA-containing plastics. When researchers poured boiling water into polycarbonate drinking bottles, it caused up to 55 times more BPA to seep out than room-temperature water had.

Consumer concern peaked in April after the National Toxicology Program (part of the National Institutes of Health) issued a draft report noting that, given the current science, the possibility couldn’t be ruled out. In September 2008, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said that BPA is safe for adults and children at current exposure levels.

Whether washing containers in hot water causes them to break down and release BPA the next time they’re used isn’t clear: only a handful of studies have been conducted, and results are conflicting. While heating these plastics in the microwave hasn’t been studied, it’s not recommended. “We assume there is increased leaching with any kind of heating,” says Anila Jacob, M.D., a senior scientist with the Environmental Working Group.

Bottom line: Manufacturers currently aren’t required to label BPA so there’s no way of knowing if it’s present in the plastics or cans you use. For now, the best way to reduce your exposure is to use stainless steel, glass or plastics labeled “BPA-free.” If you’re not sure about a product, recommends Jacob, call the manufacturer.

Bottled Water vs. Tap
Paper or Plastic Bags?

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USER COMMENTS — Add Your Comment

One more stress to add to parents and familly,we hade it good with glass bottles,milk,juices,and baby formulas in glass,so why now and then do not for once think of us the user's that pay to be poisoned,we pay the gorverment to check on the health safety of the ones that pay for there living.

diane, Luskville, QC

In addition to the possibility about exposure to toxins while using the product, consideration should also be made in the fact that these bottles only lead to more non-recylable products ending up in our landfills and oceans, which are then injested by birds and fish.

Tracy, Little Rock, AR

I recently bought some EatingWell meals from Fresh Direct (which were great). Is the plastic container that you microwave the meal in BPA-free (or is the recommendation that we not eat those meals!)?

Toby Baker, New York, NY

A friend told me that the blue shaded water buttles is safer than the white ones , he dont know why?!!!!

Haider, Baghdad, IR

If the FDA states they are safe we should not just take their word for it.

Chris, Billings, MT

What about PVC or CVC plastic tubing used in water supply for homes, does it release anything with the hot water or is water from a hot water heater hot enough to start the breakdown of materials.

Tony Bellah, Cedar Park, TX

I'd like to see further studies done on this! As a cancer survivor whose cancer was estrogen positive this concerns me GREATLY! I would also like to know if acrylic-type plastic is lumped into this 'plastic' issue.

Tracie, New Lenox, IL

Your article states that BPA is thot to lead to increased risks of heart disease and diabetes. Right now we are seeing a rise in diabetes more than ever. Hmmmm.

Chris, Darlington, IN

BPA probably leaks out in the manufacturing process of lots of things. Either the product is still hot when packaged in plastic or the platic is hot from being manufactured. So how much BPA leaks out on our processed foods. Maybe we should try to live with less plastic.

Annmarie, Milwaukee, WI

If BPA in plastics can be eliminated, then make the dam plastics without the BPA! How hard was that to figure out?

Carl Capello, Portland, CT

Go back to glass... For the health sake of all US consumers. What could the FDA be thinking... Baby bottles are in question.

Ann Rodriguez, Chicago, IL

I remember when milk was delivered in GLASS containers. Food & drinks taste better in glass. Soda pop was always better in glass. Plastics are petroleum products.

Star, Leucadia, CA

Microwaving food in plastic containing BPA has been shown to cause the BPA to leak into the food. This was proven at the National Center for Toxicologial Research several years ago.

Tabby, Redfield, AR

I've always felt that all these cancer cases resulted from the added Fluoride and chlorine in the drinking water. I'm no genius or educated person but I thought that they both were carcinogens, which means that they cause cancer. Know, with plastics, no wonder things taste better out of a glass than plastic. there wasn't much plastic in our great grandparents day, maybe thats why they passed from things other than cancer.

Gregory Hooten, Dearborn, MI

It is one thing to be able to ask a US manufacturer what is in the plastic container. It is another impossible thing to ask a manufacturer in China what is in the plastic container. Check on where your plastic container is made first before you can determine if it is safe or not.

Leslie, Houston, TX

Our wonderful government is suppose to be protecting us from this. They need to step up and ban these substances and not allow manufactures to keep using in these products that we use and consume. We shouldn't find out about this stuff after the fact!!

Jim, Trumbull, CT

Is BPA part of the toxic cocktail in the air we breath, the food we digest, and the products we consume? I assume BPA is also part of the reason why so many infertile couples exist. Then there are also the many children plagued with developmental delays such as autism. Has modern chemistry let loose a ticking time bomb? Compare BPAs leaching into our blood streams with the time long ago when people once unknownlying drank from goblets laced with lead. The lead poisoning caused horrible brain malfunctioning.

K. Fox, Simi Valley, CA

Using the popular stainless steel bottles as much as possible may relieve some concern and would relieve the landfills as well. Though no as convenient, it would be a good habit to get into.

Mel, Palmdale, CA

I am very concerned about what is in our plastics and other products; especially since Bush has deregulated everything!!!

Stacy, Carlyle, IL

I knew years ago about it being harmful so is switch to glass containers for freezing and holding my food. also tell about aluminum being harmful too. my food is much better in glass containers and i feel safer. i wish they would come back with glass if you look around everything is in plastic.

mabel nickell, Taylor, MI

With everything being deregulated, how can we trust how products are tested and how they are required to list ALL!!

Stacy, Carlyle, IL

I think the FDA should require manufacturers of products that contain BPA to state it on the container, So that consumers would be aware! (Beware)

Ernie, Hemet, CA

Yes there is some debate about BPA; however, the bulk of plastic used in today's market is PET virgin resin, it contains NO BPA. Once again the media in an attempt to sensationalize their stories are twisting the facts. This article for example knowing many people believe what they see vs. what they read, is using a picture of a one time use PET water bottle, yet talking about reusable containers. To answer another readers question about blue vs clear water bottles, your friend is wrong, there is no difference except the manufacturer has added a blue colorant for marketing purposes; its the exact same plastic in each. The sky isn't falling....not today anyway.

Henny Penny, Crystal Lake, IL

Could BPA be responsible for that bitter taste that sometimes is present in bottled water?

Wendy, Concord, CA

The FDA is myopic. They only look at BPA coming from a specific source, i.e., water containers and will accept subliminal doses. But we are exposed to multiple sources resulting in a cumulative effect. BPA is also just one more questionable chemical on a long list of questionable chemicals which we are exposed to daily in subliminal doses. Where do we start eliminating the components of this toxic cocktail?

Jason, Livermore, CA

I've heard the numbers on the bottom on plastic containers denote the level of saftey? What are those numbers? They seem seem to go from 1 to 5.

elsa salinas, S. El Monte, CA

There is a triangle on the bottom of the bottle with a number in it. I have read that 2,4,5 were good, 1 was never to be reused, All the other number were not good. I would like to know what is the number for BPA?

Jay, Bayside, NY

These new findings are very disturbing for many reasons. These are products that have contained these chemicals that have potentially been harming us the entire time of thier usage, and we are just NOW finding out what these chemicals actually do. Thats like me putting something I found under my kitchen cabinet, into my babys bottle, because i found that it cleans alot easier after the baby is done with it, NOT EVEN KNOWING WHAT IT DOES! NO ONE IN THEIR RIGHT MIND would ever do somthing like that to their own children. BUT these companies who put these chemicals into our everyday usage items dont seem to care about that. As long it dont kill us right away, its ALL GOOD! If they cant invest the money to study these chemicals TO THE FULLEST, they should NEVER USE IT! This goes for ALOT more than just BPA. You see medicines being made every year and the companies that produce them being SUED because they started causing deaths and HORRIBLE side effects not found in the original studies. Seriously its getting to the point that if you want a healthy life... YOU have to do research to find out if things on our grocery store shelves have a potential to harm your families. It is very sad that these kinds of things happen all the time, due to lack of CARING on the part of these companies. Lets put it this way... Youre a healthy non-smoker, that exercises regularly and eats organic foods, Just got a PRECANCEROUS LESION from your WATERBOTTLE!!! Its time for Companies to start doing some serious RESEARCH before putting chemicals or medicines into the hands of the general public.

Philip Jones, Arlington, TX

I wonder if this could be part of the increase in juvenile diabetes? What about plastic wrap? That's been debated for years. I personally never felt easy about microwaving that. And as for baby bottles, it's another reason why breastfeeding is the way to go!

Patrice, New Lenox, IL

BPA has been around a long time. Instead of testing the general puplic why not test the workers who handle the BPA at the factories where BPA and the plastic containers that are manufactured with BPA are produced? That would certainly answer the question as to wheather or not exposure to BPA over a long period of time is harmfull.

Bob Manthei, Blue Island, IL

For sure sodas (coke, dr. pepper, etc) taste better in glass bottles, and milk seems to sour quicker in plastic, so my vote is for glass.

Roy Black, Devine, TX

Thanks for the article. i personally don't take any chances with my family's health. we've thrown away bagfuls of plastic containers. according to thegreenguide.com (a national geographic site), there are several classes of plastic that are potentially unsafe for us. the name of the plastic, number code (usually found on the bottom of the container), harmful chemical and unhealthy effects are listed below. polyvinyl chloride (pvc, number 3): di-2-ethylhexyphthalate (dehp): endocrine disruptor, carcinogen polystyrene (ps, number 6): styrene: endocrine disruptor, carcinogen polycarbonate (number 7): bisphenol-a (bpa): endocrine disruptor the site also has information about how to choose plastic containers and which types are "safe". in addition, the fda based its recommendation on the results of studies funded by PLASTIC manufacturing companies! while i generally trust the fda, i don't accept every recommendation with blind trust. finally, did you know that recycled plastics are used to make NONrecyclable plastic? so all the plastic we currently use ends up in a landfill or in the oceans forever. john

john, Farmington Hills, MI

Just another reason to raise an eyebrow to our ever so infamous government. We should have stayed with what our Parents had taught us from long ago and just be carefull with that "GLASS' honey, it will break. Use what we knew would work and "WAS" and "still" is safe for your well being and health. If ya dont like glass, use Stainless Steel, or Milk Glass!

Ken Davis, San Jose, CA

Wow, after reading this, I now worry about my childrens health an mine, we drink from plastic water bottles everyday all day, I pray that we are fine. Should I have my whole family tested of the BPA found in the plastic? An will the goverment do a larger testing to found out answers soon, we need to no now. An not to late. If our families are going to be OK from this.

nydra, Virginia Beach, VA

I'm concerned about the smell in the plastic bags used to bag our groceries 7 alot of grocery stores & Pharmaceys also have this same order in what they clean floors etc. with. The smell is even in lettuce etc. Can't wash smell off so I feel like i'm eating it. it really bothers my allergies & asthma What ever is being used should be stopped. thank you.

Charlotte, Georgetown, IL

I grew up in an 100% Italian home with both parents originally born in Italy. Frankly, I cannot recall any foods or containers which were plastic. The exception perhaps being Saran Wrap. Peanut butter, ketchup, mustard, mayo, etc. were all sold in bottles or cans. Milk was in paper cartons. Leftovers were stored in Pyrex or that Saran Wrap. There were no "microwaves" so nothing was heated in plastic...My mother died of Pancreatic cancer in her late 70's and my Dad died of a heart attack 2 wks shy of 90. The vegetables were all home grown and the chickens were bought at the chicken store....the meats were cut or ground by the butcher. Both used paper wrapping. If your 50 or older, you probably noticed that steak and chicken do not have the flavor that it did when you were young. Let's face it, we are killing ourselves with chemicals, pesticides, microwaves and more. Let's go back to the "old ways"....it's probably too late for me but not for my children.

David Rubino, Niles, OH

Hi, I'm a diet soda junkie, I mean I drink close to 7 liters of diet soda a week, so this has me freaking out. Other than my soda use, I'm in great shape but my family has a very high risk of cancer. Will plastic increase that risk?

Audrey, Fair Oaks, CA

We just got rid of transfats, some manufacturers will use anything to increase profits, we need BPA on labels, so we can use our own judgement.

Duane Schade, Rogers, AR

Modern plumbing uses uses plastic pipes, I wonder if the pipes have BPA in their material makeup.

Jimjo, San Diego, CA

It is SIMPLE....delete the BPA and advertise it as "New and almost cancer free"

Dykey Phillips, Orlando, FL

I use to heat baby bottles and sippy cups in the microwave 8-13 years ago and now I am hoping it does not have a long term effect on my children. I never ever considered it would harm them back then.

kim, Ridgefield, CT

And another scare tactic used by science to sell an article or get a grant that will ultimately put some poor souls out of work to save the world. Hey out there! We're all gonna die sometime, in the meantime, enjoy life!

Mike, Cedar Park, TX

I have to wonder, given some of my health issues, if plastics haven't had a part in diabetic condition & cardiac problems, maybe even breathing issues.

John Sims, S Euclid, OH

I will avoid them for myself and my family. Our legislators both state and federal should push legislation to investigate this further NOW. JUST THINK ABOUT THIS.... I know of many women past 50 with no breast cancer but dealing with daughters that have breast cancer. Something our parents and grandparents were not exposed to is causing this to happen. This COULD very well be one of them.

Carolyn Muse, Zion, IL

There are other alternatives to using products that could harm your health. We need to start using our brains... The studies already show that something is harmful do we want to be the statistic.. The FDA is not coming to your home to care for you if you get sick.. Use glass or stainless steel. It has been safe for years.

Elaine, Fort Worth, TX

This situation is no different than smoking cigarettes. Until they did studies on cigarettes, there was never a concern. I feel this will show the same conclusions once a in-depth study is conducted. Personally, I won't take the chance anymore and wait for that time to come. Why risk it?? Another good example I've discoved is drinking beer or soda from cans as opposed to bottles. There's a totally different taste between the two. Knowing the potency of soda or beer for chemical reactions to other materials, I wouldn't be surprised that the same process is at work here also.

Paul, Berlin, CT

I had heard about this concern a few years ago and it always crosses my mind when I see a plastic bottle with food or liquid in it exposed to heat. I would want to see BPA warnings on packaging so that I know what I am buying.

GJ, San Diego, CA

We're poisoning our society like the Romans did with lead. Government doesn't seem any more concerned than those Romans, either. Maybe the FDA should remember the old adage: better safe than sorry since they're responsible for the health & safety of millions of us.

L, Sebastopol, CA

Just one more "scare" based on some flimsy correlation. Remember the coming Ice Age, Alar, Killer Bees? All bull. I'm not going to give this a thought.

Gary, Rowlett, TX

yes I am concerned and I can't help but think our goverment lets these thing be done to controll the population they do not care about the health of people they know what is being put out in containers and our food! It is of no surprise they turn there heads. Every product on the market needs qualiy controll and they sit on there buts and do research after the fact. After millions of people get Ill with cancers and other problems. A product should not be allowed on the market untill it is deemed safe. Our goverment knows just what they are doing they care less about the lifes of us American people. If they cared this would not be on the market. I am so outraged the way things are being done in our country!!!

debbie, Paso Robles, CA

I am a chemist and perform lab packs for universities and large companies. When i pack chemicals that are used in preparation for consumer goods and food stuff I am at a loss for words to know that known carcinogens and other bad for us chemicals are used. Even organic foods are not totaly regulated. Chemical run off is everywhere and leaches into farm lands. Sorry to put the nightmare on your lap but I have seen with my own eyes.

ConcernedReader, Toledo, OH

Since learning about BPA in plastics I've done a little research, and what I've learned is frightening. I am purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables as well as meats from a meat counter, not prepackaged meat. I have returned to using glass for food storage, waxed paper plus freezer paper for freezing meats & vegs, and no more non-stick cookware. The FDA and our medical profession need to investigate this thoroughly and report honestly their findings. I'm not sure that will ever happen because it all boils down to petroleum products. It's very frightening to think that every medication we consume also comes in plastic.

Teri, Rancho Cordova, CA

Why is it always that we learn of dangers to our health after the fact? One would think that of all things we commonly use Plastic anything rates at about 90% usage with in America. There is no blame here just disgust. We as a people have become so greedy that many often hide "side effects" for a Buck $. I find it very hard to believe this saftey concern was not just discovered. Maybe it was just uncovered by people that have nothing or little to gain by exposing it. I refuse to worry about these things anymore believing that if we knew the truth about things we eat and use everyday we would live in a world of chaos. All I can say to the people that cover up things for $$ is,"STOP IT" !!!!

Yitzy, Long Grove, IL

I am not concerned in the least about anecdotal and incomplete studies that can find nothing except suggestions. There is arsenic in all our water but the amount in it required to harm us is so miniscule that you'd need to drink gallons a day for over 100 yrs. for it to have any effect, and then they can't say exactly what or how serious that would be (not to mention the cost of removing it is nearly prohibative for working folk and pensioners). Everything is a crisis and will kill us to some folks. The sky is not falling and the world is not about to end because those with an agenda commission a study that is slanted towards supportting health industry sales or the sale of a (more expensive no doubt) "new" plastic without BPA. After all if we cut back on gas the oil giants have to sell us something. 10 years from now another incomplete study will show that TSP or TLB or AIR is got something in it that can kill, maim or make you ill-oh wait, I think AIR does, doesn't it-stop using it, don't breath. Stressing over what horror may happen to us is probably more harmful than some substance that we haven't studied enough. We know too much sugar isn't good for you either or too much tainted fish-just remember to look both ways before crossing the street so a truck won't kill your supremely healthy and protected body. And always wear clean underwear 'cause you never know.

Rammer, Chicago, IL

I am concerned about plastics, and my health. I am also concerned if this chemical can have an affect on our pets as well?

Danette, Lakewood, OH

I've known for about 1 year now and I have drastically revamp my kitchenware and baby/toddler ware (I have 2) to glass, stainless steel, and Bpa-free plastic. What I am so shocked at is that I have friends who supplied with all this info and still will not change their BPA baby bottles to something safer. 2 of my friends seem to think that their mothers raised them this way and they are okay so their kids should be fine--although they are still only in their late twenties. I feel a bit enraged everytime I watch them put hot liquids into those bottles to feed their little babies but I guess...to each their own....I can only change myself not others.

Hannah, Monterey Park, CA

I call the manufacture for their Food Saver Plastic bags. Their statement was that the bags were appoved by the FDA, and would not say if They were BPA free. I guess NOT! So how can I find out for sure when the manufacture will not tell you?

Larry, Colorado Springs, CO

I've heard that the bottles with a 3 or a 7 are the ones to avoid. There are numbers on the bottom and on either side of the bar code. Does anyone know what all of these mean?

Tom, Long Beach, CA

In my opion, the BPA should have been tested before it was ever used! Why wait 20(?) years later to tell the public. I like the water in bottles better than my tap water because my water smells of clhorine big time. I also recycle everything I can.

L, Hood, Mount Clemens, MI

Everything these days is linked to cancer. These kind of studies are so difficult to conduct. It's like warnings on meds: may cause increased blood pressure, itchiness, swelling, nausea... They have to put it, even if only one person in the study had that problem. Most of the time it's not even related to the drug. Like someone saying they sneezed while on it. Not a symptom, just a daily occurrence, but it goes in the warnings. Until they can tell me why plastic is causing cancer or high blood pressure I'm not going to worry.

Marissa, Haverhill, MA

According to the book Anti-Cancer (which I am in the process of reading now) we should be watching more than our water of what we put into our bodies.

Tracy, San Francisco, CA

Can't give you the link, but check out the research being done by the Algalita Marine Research Foundation, in Long Beach. We should be concerned with out entire food chain when it comes to plastics!

Christine, Los Angeles, CA

Well i am very concern just with little bit you have discribed seems we are only scratching the surface of a much larger picture of sorts, containers, cooking, medical, also drinking containers polystrene, ploypropalenes, polycarbonates, nylon12, nylon6, also polyvinlys is A MUCH bigger picture which i am surrprized has not been FDA investigated. WOW....

Kenneth Nolan, Anaheim, CA

Simply put, "Plastics are killing you and the planet" Look up plastic island on google and read. Plastics never really go away, the break into smaller particles. in our oceans, plastic mimics plankton, the base food source of the world. It out numbers real plankton 8 to 1. the food chain is becoming more toxic and its in your food. please spread the word and stop using plastic for you health and the planet.

spencer, Los Angeles, CA

Eatingwell meals from fresh direct...in plastic & microwaved? How fresh is that. It has long been proven that microwaving anything kills any nutritional value in the food. Even cooking by stove kills out a big nutritional value. Fresh and Raw is the only certain way to obtain the full nutrients of healthy food...steamed will get them warm and keep most nutrients. It amazes me how our society bucks everything to bad health yet the most obvious they ignore. Bottles vs glass? What about the chemicals placed in EVERY boxed food item? If it can not spoil, it has something foreign that we yet place into our bodies. I am wiery to listen to the FDA, as well.

Tammy, Edmond, OK

When do we stop worrying about the maybe's in life. Here is another example of man's progress being jeopardized by inuendo, and fear mongering. How many more years must be added onto our expectations of life length, before we realize that the balance of progress has been for our benefit. Let's make sure of our facts before we begin to fear. Plastics are more than just convenient. Think about what it was like using only glass, and unlined metal cans, and remember all those dangers! Were we better off then or now!

Paul L., San Leandro, CA

Okay. I would like to say that anything and everything is harmful to your health. Being exposed to the outside world is slowly killing us every day. Aluminum cans, thermometers, plastic, paint, the sun and even air is harmful. Living life is a risk in itself, so why spend time worrying about every little thing. We live in a world of technology where we are STOP being so paranoid, people. We'll die eventually. Let's not spent the brief lives we've got stressing over what's going to kill us next. Enjoy life. It's plastic, people.

Lauren, Houston, TX

Since plastics take forever to decompose, why can't manufacturers go back to using glass to hold their products? At least glass is a SAFE, re-useable product!

Peggy, Oak Ridge,, TN

This is yet another case that might have been prevented by strong government oversight by the FDA. When its "profits over people" people always lose, in our increasingly third world country.

Bill, Sherman Oaks, CA

Not only plastic bottles, but plastics from computer key boards (wash hands after using).

Anonymous, Kalamazoo, MI

I have suspected something dark and hiden about the plastic industry when I started seeing advertisement on how great plastic is and how we could not live without it. it is amazing no study has been conducted linking it to cancer when everything we touch is made of plastic.

mike, Plainfield, IL

We have been buying water bottled for about 24 years. My brother and I are very close to getting DIABETES,so you are right. Recently I have read a wonderfull book regarding all the chemicals, toxins and food additives that are poisoning our body everyday, I highly recommend reading this book (NATURAL CURES "THEY" DON'T WANT YOU TO KNOW ABOUT) WRITTEN BY: KEVIN TRUDEAU.

helen, Riverside, CA

My doctor told me, about a year ago, that because of the bad chemicals, not to drink from anything that you can flex or crinkle, (you know like a coke bottle crinkles when you flex it). I now carry either a stainless mug, reused glass Fuze bottles or hard plastic thermal mugs with me wherever I go. You get used to it. They even let me use my own cup at the movie theaters, if they don't have paper cups.

susan norman, Ringgold, GA

A very interesting article. What about the plastic containers that we store the food in and then heat it up in the microwave? (Like the Glad, Hefty and Rubbermaid containers)

Nancy, Sarasota, FL

I have absolutely no concerns about the use of plasics.

d.nix, Victoria, TX

I'm very concerned and have just spent a fortune on glass baby bottles for the child I'm expecting. There are many plastics that claim to be bpa free, but I purchased glass because who knows what will be discovered next. Plastics are chemical based and I feel safer going with glass, but I don't really know what chemicals are used or not used in the production of glass either. It doesn't seem like there is anything that doesn't cause some sort of risk for cancer thanks to the chemical revolution.

Sharie, Truckee, CA

I am expecting and have always nursed. I was planning on suppliment feeding my expectant twins. I can't find glass etc bottles and I am not going to buy the expensive 1 use bottles... it doesn't leave much choice.

Abby, Plainfield, IL

A friend of my brother-in-laws next door neighbors barbar said plastic is fine. Don't believe all the hoopla.

Barak Obama, Tijayana, Me

There is a medication, Polyethylene Glycol for which the dose is 1 tablespoon daily. It sounds like plastic to me. Is there BPA in it?

Chaya McKenney, Alpine, TX

Whenever big corporations and the government tell us something is safe - we need to ask: who will benefit from this lastest technology? By far the answer usually has nothing to do with the health of the people.

Stephanie, Appleton, WI

I have had problems with an allergy to different types of plastics (solid and all of those wonderful protective coatings on notebooks, folders, magazines, dog food bags, etc) which all give me hives. I do my best to avoid exposure, but plastics are pervasive in our lives. Some magazines are so toxic I have to wear cotton gloves to read them. I know plastic is supposed to be an inert substance but they must be giving off some free radicals somewhere as my body has to be reacting to something. If I knew exactly what maybe I could avoid exposure a little more effectively. It makes me wonder about the long-term effects on our children. With constant exposure to so many different chemicals (Hand sanitizers included) and chemical compounds (plastics included) no wonder there is such an increased incidence in childhood illnesses such as asthma.

Pam, Naples, NY

Why not label the bottles and let the consumer make a informed choice. Not too much for the FDA I would think.

skip russell, Austin, TX

You all should just trust the FDA. They don't take money from companies or groups. Nobody in the FDA is a part of these groups or large companies. Trust them! They have your best interest in mind! Trust them with your lives. With your children's lives!

Baccalacci, Chicago, IL

My health is already compromised by diabetes and hypertension....I don't need/want any added issues. I wish they would label all containers so that they can be read easily and interpreted easily.

Milly, Bath, MI

The obvious choice is a move over to bioplastics which are a natural product and do not harm the environment. The company developing the commercialization of bioplastics. You can find out more information about this company at: www.cereplast.com

Mick Ming, Chicago, IL

interesting that you show a picture of a plastic bottle that has NO BPA in it. Is that because you are trying to induce panic, or because you are incompetent?

Dennis, Santa Monica,, C

I heard a similar story on the radio. It said the ones with 3, 6, and 7 in the recycle triangle are the ones to avoid. The others, 1,2,4, & 5 are OK. Reporters usually get things wrong (and sometimes make things up), so it's probably safer to use glass containers to microwave or heat food until this story is verified. Throwing your plastics away would be wasteful; they can be used for other purposes.

JT, Belleville, IL

Without a doubt plastic leaching of endocrine disrupting chemicals like BPA is harming animals in the environment. Why would we be immune from the deleterious effects. We aren't. There are fewer boys born. More boys are born with undescended testicles and hypospadias. We see earlier and more frequent testicular cances. BUT as always, politics and money prevail. The chemical industry wants evidence that is beyond reasonable doubt before they will allow any conclusions to be made that will impact their income. I am not waiting for this. We use waxed paper, glass storage containers, stainless steel of Sigg water bottles, buy no canned goods--only those in glass jars or preserve our own. It's a shift toward how things used to be before we let convenience take prescidence over maintaining our health.

Joannne52, Kansas City, MO

where is the human case study??? We have all been drinking out of these bottles for years, whether it be backpacking or just day to day... and yet nothing... now the studies are saying when they put these bottles to extremes they can effect mice with not even half of the immune system we all have... you tell me but i will continue to drink out of my favorite BPA bottle till it breaks.

dustin, Paramus, NJ

I know that they are using corn to make (plastic) like containers for hot and cold foods. Dose anyone know if they have looked into makeing beverage bottles from corn? If it is do able, it might solve the problem.

Mike Martello, Augusta, GA

If water can make plastic leach BPA, then what happens when distillers use plastic bottles to package liquor?

chas., Salt Lake City, UT

The uncertainty of plastic content effects and landfill disposal issues are why we at www.amedank.com decided to carry reusable 16 oz. water bottles made from 100% renewable Natureworks PLA (corn). Not from petroleum and biodegrades-returns to earth in commercial compost. Top has built in filter for use with munincipal tap water.

Jerry, Sebastian, FL

There are alot more things out there that concern me way more than plastic. I just love how non-science types will say things like 95% of the people were positive for BPA, oh my gosh! Stop the presses! What you don't say are what levels they are found at in the body. For instance, did you know that every plant and animal on the planet has DDT in its tissues (even at the north and south poles)? DDT vs BPA, gee I dunno. Did you know that all plants and animals contain PLUTONIUM!!! Its true, plutonium is a naturally occuring element (its in the soil, thus plants, thus animals). Remember that anti-smoking ad that said cigarettes contained PLUTONIUM! Well they do, just like every plant on earth tobacco is no exception. -Chemist

carl, Bradenton, FL

We have been using plastic for decades. The average American is living longer today. I'm not worried about it. If I concerned myself with every news flash about what causes cancer and what is harmful to my health, I'd never eat, drink, take a shower with city water, use a public restroom, etc. Personally, I think we are spending too much money on studies such as this. There are people out there that would be happy to have food and drink, no matrer what it came in.

Pete, Marion, OH

As usual the media is spreading more false information. All disposable plastic bottles are made of PET not polycarbonate. PET is used in all disposable beverage bottles. The only bottled water that is sold in PC is reusable 3 and 5 gal. bottles which when returned are cleaned in an environmental manner and refilled for resale. The picture used in the article is a disposable PET bottle. So for all of you who buy individual serve water, the bottle is made out of PET, look at the recycle symbal on the bottom, that's what it's there for.

Jim, Columbia, SC

It is really scary that our government cannot figure this one out. Either BPA is harmful or it is not. Why do the consumers have to figure this out and have to spend more money replacing items we already have with those that are BPA free. And of course we are going to do whatever we think is correct as we do not want to potentially harm our children or ourselves. I think there is a lot more work to be done here......

CG, Hackettstown, NJ

Plastic bottles contaminate our land since it takes hundreds of years to degrade. We should stop using plastic bottles.

JC, Lakewood, CO

How is BPA used in the production of the bottle? Is it needed? If not, don't use it. Plain and simple...case closed.

Steve, Gorham, ME

If BPA has the possibility of causing undue harm to the consumers of plastic container foods and liquids, how much would it cost the manufacturers to either leave it out of the process, or replace it with a substance, absolutely safe and cost effective? What is the U.S. Government saying about this? Is this true of all plastic containers, such as, drinking water, sandwich and ketchup containers? What kinds of persuasive pressures can people exert to bring about a benevolent change?

John Holbrook, Parsippany, NJ

I enjoy filling a plastic 7-up bottle with filterd water and putting bottle in the freezer so it turns to ice, then as it thaws out, I drink the icy water. I am wondering if that is dangerous.

Ian, Nashville, TN

One thing that I find interesting is none of the media has mentioned the fact that aluminum sode cans and canned food is lined with a resin that contains BPA. If you are concerned look out for those as well. Also watch out for the metal sports bottles that are aluminum and not stainless steel (stainless steel requires no interior lining).

Aaron, Pittsburgh, PA

This is a complete no brainer....go back to bottles with deposits on them, that way most people would not throw them away and fill up landfills, along with the health reasons.

Budman, Nashville, TN

These studies that plastic water bottles are not safe are almost always done by public water companies that want you to drink tap water. I used to live in the Los Angeles area where they have been talking about a "toilet to tap" program off and on for years. Personally I'd rather take my chances with plastic water bottles than drink water in a city like Los Angeles where in the future they will have signs posted over public toilets that read "FLUSH HARD, IT'S A LONG WAY TO THE DRINKING FOUNTAIN". That's just plain disgusting. (I wrote this as I drank water from my plastic Arrowhead water bottle too)

Daran, Chandler, AZ

Food packaging most often comes in plastic. Travel coffee mugs are made of plastic. Chinese food comes in plastic. But no one knows which container is safe to reheat in a microwave. Are ALL of Tupperware, Rubbermaid, and Gladware's products safe to use in a microwave? I don't know, do you? Using the wrong container can result in leaching and can impact one's long term health. The FDA should require a (M) microwave safety stamp on any food/beverage container that one might use in reheating. Most plastic packaging contains a numbered triangle stamp on the bottom to denote it's rigidity and recyclable grouping. I don't think adding an additional safety stamp is too much to ask.

MM, Long Island, NY

YIKES! I thought the polycarbonate plastic was the kind that was proven NOT to leach into liquids & foods, which is why we buy deonized water and store it in those jugs. Also, I just bought bottles for water in the car so that we could use them safely and for a long time, thereby opting for "reuse" instead of "recycle". This is not good news. btw, I never automatically take the word of the FDA --they are too bureaucratic and far too influenced by corporations, drug manufacturers, and the very much skewed opinions of the AMA at this point. Knowledge is power, so it's up to us to research and pass around to each other what we learn.

MARB2, Alameda, CA

This is so frustrating. I recently became conscious of all the crap the FDA feeds us, literally and verbally. I get made fun of sometimes by my peers who don't give a flip but i really am concerned. I want safe products not only for myself but for the children i will bring into the world one day. And i don't want to pay more for the things (organic foods, BPA free products) that should be a standard to begin with.

Erika, New York, NY

Studies that have shown adverse health effects have not always been reproducible in other laboratories, which adds to the confusion. Many academic researchers studying BPA do not use "GLP" - Good Laboratory Practices. Also, please beware that when you cite anything from a scientist of the Environmental Working Group, that they are a TRIAL LAWYER funded advocacy group, with the primary intention of making ALL chemicals look bad so that their ambulance chasers can make tons of dough suing everyone for everything.

Scientist, Washington, DC

OK Michele, in the second sentense you wrote "The risks are not something I really want to take a chance with." So, whay did YOU decide after posing all the questions that you did? Wheres the conclusion???

R J STEPHANOFF, NYC, NY

wow people actually think this is a big deal? Its a plastic bottle! whats next? is everybody gonna be scared of lightbulbs? I understand it can cause health issues but jeeze it seems like everytime i turn the news on there's another new thing to be afraid of.

dan, Here In, CA

PLEASE LET PEOPLE KNOW that eating cruciferous veggies helps our bodies get rid of estrogen mimics. BROCCOLI, CAULIFLOWER, BRUSSELS SPROUTS, CABBAGE.

tedda, San Francisco, CA

My mother taught me over 10 years ago not to microwave in plastic, freeze water in plastic etc because of the chemicals released!! She learned this in her health food business.

laurie, Malta, MT

If you are looking for plastic food storage that is BPA free, try oso*fresh food storage. These containers have a natural antibacterial agent to keep your food fresh 3 times longer than ordinary food storage and they are BPA free! You are not only saving money on groceries, but you can also feel good that you are using safe containers! www.thefreshlife.com

Jackie Perron, Long Branch, NJ

My Mom who died at age 90 had always warned us about eating from plastics and cooking in aluminum pans. She didnt like heating food in the microwave. Used iron skillet and stainless steel. Although we were a low income family of 7, we used our best silverware to eat with. Said the silver was good for you.

Carol Wright, Mineral Wells, Te

The company Diamantfilm has the capability to produce plastic food wrap and is in the process of creating plastic bottles that are bio-degradable and free of this harmful chemical. I order all of my food wrap from them and can't wait until their process of testing their plastic bottles are complete.

SAD, Tomah, WI

I just love it when "informed" articles refer to "diabetes". There are two VERY DIFFERENT diseases, both named diabetes. It would help if Health writers remembered that, and took the time to distinguish between them. Kind of calls the credibility of the writer into question when they fail o do so.

Henry, Houston, TX

This article seems to talk about heat as a factor. If the bottle stays cool there should be no leaching problems. Its important not to use the same bottle more than 5 refills though.

ty, Portland, OR

My only question is the same as anything else they seem to put ingredients/chemicals in that will kill us. The inevitability is they will eventually remove the toxin(s) in the current container product(s), etc. because they will kill us. Why are they (BPA's, etc.) there to begin with??? What was wrong with glass? Its recyclable. Oh yeah! It fills up our land fills....Whats wrong with this picture....?

Kenny James, Riverside, CA

Something very important is missing from that article on BPA. What recycling numbers to look for to know which is BPA!! From the websites, I have found that recycle #s 3,6 and 7 are the numbers to avoid when using plastics. BPA is found in these numbers, amongst other potentially dangerous chemicals. These numbers are found in the triangle recycling symbols on the bottom of the product.

Cassy, Saddle Brook, NJ

The govt is being controlled by the various lobbies they know and again refuse to protect citizens.

dr3vgn, Cleveland, OH

Full disclosure would be good on articles like this. Increase (but doesn't state what increase). And then looking at the comments here, show the incomplete information (I mean not 1% incomplete, but 1% of the data is available). So if you want full disclosure, then full disclosure on artiels are needed as well.

Cliff, Louisville, KY

It is important to note that plastic tooth fillings also contain BPA. Common sense tells me that any artificial/synthetic chemical is going to have a harmful affect on our health. It is very sad that the government knows this yet allows it to continue. We are constantly bombarded with all of these harmful chemicals and it seems it's much easier to allow big business to create more life threatening products than it is to stop them. It's all about big business and money. Follow the money.

Roger, Blairsville, PA

What about PLASTIC Mouth Guard? I must use it every night (7-8 hrs) because of grinding my teeth. I grind one up in about 3 mos! WHAT about this??? What other type should be used? Please Advise. Thanks, Ron

Ron, San Diego, CA

It bpa free plastics exists, why aren't all plastic containers made without this harmful chemical? Should the presence of Bpa not be banned from all plastics that are in contact with food.?

sandra feldman, Flower Mound, TX

It is because of graphics like those used to illustrate your article that misinformation about plastics and BPA cause concern among the general public. The picture accompanying your story is a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) water bottle. PET does not contain BPA. Polycarbonate plastics, such as those used in reusable water bottles, do have trace amounts of BPA. It's no wonder consumers are so confused and scared.

David Luttenberger, West Chester, PA

This is very scary for me because I have three small children and everything is plastic. I need to know does this include plastic bowls, plates or sippy cups?

Judy, Tucson, AZ

My problem is why we always find out about the harmful effects of a product which has been used for years after the harm is done. I believe that the plastic bottles can be harmful but will they find something wrong with the alternatives after we switch?

Sandra, Roxboro, NC

I HATE greedy manufacturers using this product and knowing its harmful effects to humans. The upside to this if I ever get cancer due to their product....I will sue!!!!

Brian, New York, NY

Governtment? What Government? Oversight? What's that? Heck, they can't even get Wall Street starightened out. You expect what from the Bush administration? Honestly, the amount of leaching is trace and there is little to worry about. Alarming opinions such as these, are dangerous and irresponsible. Ya research says...but lab rats develop cancer no matter what is inlected into them. Go scrape a knee having fun...it'll be worse than bottled water ever thought of being. Good luck drinking your municipal or well water.....

Jeff Ericsen, Modesto, CA

PBS had a show on a while back talking about BPA and it's dangers. I believe the countries in Europe have passed laws keeping it out of their products. In China where most of the plastic is produced they have one factor produce USA items with BPA because it is cheaper to produce. Another factor produces items that will go to Europe which contain no BPA. My main concers is baby bottles and baby toy often contain BPA. Many young families are busy and are not aware of this chemical. The report also mention the reproductive system in men may be affected, another reason Europe band BPA. We chose to wait and see, did not feel evidence was conclusive enough. Male testicles in mice were significently small with BPA.

Kathy Tankersley, Gravois Mills, MO

It is my understanding that that some cans used for canned foods are lined with BPA. It is also my understanding that those same cans and foods are heated during the canning process to kill bacteria which can cause salmonella and botulism poisoning, etc. Does this heating process promote the leaching of BPA? If so, does more BPA leach out the longer the can sits on the shelf? Additionally, when I pack nutritious school lunches, I pack soft items in plastic containers to prevent from them being smashed in the lunch box. Plastic water bottle, too. I certainly can't send glass containers. By trying to provide a nutritious lunch am I at the same time risking my child's health in other ways? Just what is the level of risk here?

C, Leesburg, VA

Well, has anyone researched the fact of what's in the "bottle" instead of blaming things like that. yes plastic is bad for you BUT only if you heat it up to a certain temprature. You do realise most people drink diet and regular pops in plastic containers, Ive found with research that aspartame is a high suspect of cauing diabetes and high fructose corn syrup, both of which are in diet pop. So think about whats in the plastic before you judge every little thing.

Eric, Algonac, MI

I'm a little shocked at how stupid you folks are. C'mon, use the math you ignored in highschool: 95% of folks already have this in their system. Oh noes!! Chicken little!! Help, help! OK morons, if 95% of folks have this in their system, and they aren't dropping off like flies, chances are, it isn't dangerous. End of story. Duh. And for those of you whining that life was so much better when we had glass everything: I had an aunt who died at age two because she broke a glass bottle in her crib and she bled to death before they could get medical help. Wow! Things were SO much better in the good old days. Did you know apple seeds have arsenic in them? Arsenic has been proven to kill people!! Let's get the FDA on this immediately!! More taxpayer dollars for stupid studies please!! It really scares the crap out of me that you guys can vote.

Carolynp, Salem, OR

You cant even believe people will make something safe. The cheaper the better. WTF?

Buddy, Rochester, NY

So far I have read that plastics are responsible for diabetes, cancer, asthma. The majority of the claims made in this forum are completely ludicrous and have no credibility whatsoever. The simple fact that plastics allow us to keep food much safer than glass or any other material is being overlooked. This is not plastics fault, it is simply consumer ignorance on the subject. BPA is used as a processing "lubricant" during the molding of Polycarbonate since the molecular structure of PC is large it is often difficult to mold. The trace (think 3 parts per million) amounts of BPA in a molded part are insignificant. Do not group all plastics into the "BPA Scare" category, since not all food packaging uses Polycarbonate material. Plastics are not ruining the world and are not the cause of disease. Examine diet and activity habits before you point the easy finger at plastics. If it was not for plastics and the innovation in the last 100 years of these materials the food chain as you currently know it would be completely different. Think milk delivered in glass bottles era.

D, Plastics Research, CA

I've been drinking out of these plastic bottles all my life. If they haven't hurt me know, who's to say they will. I like my convenience and don't plan to stop using them because they say that it isn't good for us.

Candace, Wichita, KS

This is very upsetting as I just found out that I have diabetes, as I have for over 10 years drink water from plastic bottles and always washed and reused them till they looked as tho they had been in a war. This is very upsetting to me as I was tryin to help on reusing plastic so that it would not mme in laid fields. God help us all if this is true. I will now depose of all plastic in my home

J Thomas, Mesquite, TX

We have been hearing and learning about the problems with plastic for a few years now - that is why I now have an atmospheric water generator - a machine that makes 99.9% pure water from the air!

Janice Norwood, Hallsville, TX

We live in a valley of farmers in rural Wisconsin and have a very high nitrate level in our water. We've been told repeatedly that our drinking water is BAD, bad enough even for our animals (this based on a state and Culligan water test). For the past 5 years we have been buying and refilling plastic water jugs from the grocery store. Is this now more harmful than the nitrates? Doesn't Culligan use plastic bottles for their water? Which is the worst of all these evils?

Jessica, Eau Claire, WI

The uncertainty of the effects of plastic and the well documented landfill issue is why we carry 16 oz. 100% renewable PLA (corn) water bottles with filter for munincipal tap water at www.amedank.com. Not from petroleum and biodegradable back to the earth. Stainless steel is another good option.

Jerry, Sebastian, FL

A few week ago i boiled some water for drinking. I let the water cool, but it was still warm when i put it in the plastic drinking container i keep in the fridge. Well for 3 weeks now i have been feeling sick to my stomach and still can't seem to shake this feeling. ???

Cathy, Oldsmar, FL

In the article there is no mention of the concentration levels of BPA and what is considered toxic or dangerous. Are further studies needed to determine this? Living in Southern California most of my life, I have been exposed to considerable air polution which is probably more dangerous than exposure to BPA.

Terry Van Buskirk, Chino, CA

I shifted to stainless steel water bottles for all usage. Put a water filter on your kitchen faucet. I even use stainless steel mugs for coffee and tea.

Ed, Chalfont, PA

Huh?

Meee, San Diego, CA

As one who has developed Multiple Chemical Sensitivity, and has to basically cloister myself at home, because of the chemicals that outgas from all the plastics, we use, and because of how sick all the chemicals in our environment, make me. Yes, I am very concerned about BPA, other plastics and chemicals that have pervaded our lives. The plastics industry illustrated it so well, in a recent commercial, showing plastics melting away from all the products we use today, and where we would be without it. What those commercials showed ME, was that we are inundated with the very chemicals, which are made from the carbons, that have been slowly killing us over the past fifty years. No other generation, in the history of this country, has been as sick as we are today. And if you think about it, we are more technologically advanced than we ever were. But where has that gotten us? Higher cancer rates; super bugs, that our drugs can't fight, people dying of diseases - with no known cause or cure. As a nurse, I'm not so convinced that the drugs (that are making the drug companies multiple billions of dollars profit every year), are really good for us. In multiple millions, of people, these drugs have lead to "Poly-pharmacy" . . .needing to take one drug on top of another to cover the side effects, caused by previous drugs. Then the drugs that are supposed to cover the side effects, CAUSE side effects - only to require MORE drugs. It's a downward spiral (for the patient), and an upward $piral for the drug companies. These drugs are all made from chemicals, that our bodies' organs were not made to continually filter, in many cases leading to organ failure. In addition to drugs, our foods are FULL of chemicals, that our bodies weren't made to process. I'm also not so sure that the FDA has our best interests at heart, when they allow mercury to be put in vaccines (as preservatives? Many believe this can lead to Autism), and vaccinate our girls against HPV, with a drug that has caused paralysis and in some cases death? In my opinion, one case of death or paralysis is too many! But, now there is talk of making this vaccination mandatory, for ALL girls from the age of 11 or 12 on. There isn't even any proof that 40 years down the line these ladies WON'T get cervical cancer! This drug hasn't been around long enough to study the effects or efficacy! Why don't we put the billions going to the drug company, toward educating our girls and stressing abstinance? ? ? And for the people who say, "the chemicals are there, and there is nothing we can do about it, so just accept it . . .". FINE, YOU live with it, YOU sit by and watch your children and grandchildren get sick, YOU find out in 20 years, or so, that you should have been more concerned about BPA and other chemicals in our environment. Personally, I plan to act now, and make changes in MY environment. I plan to use as many "green" products as I can. I plan to continue to drive my Hybrid car. I plan to recycle a much as I can, reducing waste and land fill space. Go ahead, call me a "Tree Hugger", call me a nut. But, my guess is that in 50 years, your children and grandchildren are going to be thanking me, and asking you why you didn't do more!

Claudia, York, PA

This basic study is completely flawed. A through review of the 246 citations for it's foundation show a complete lack of cohesive edvidence of any, repeat "any" effect on human kind in the normal usage of this product. I am well familiar with the detection methods used and the methodologies employed. These studies, although academically interesting, do not serve the public well and only provide the researchers involved an excuse for funding.

Greg, N Hollywood, CA

I'm reminded about the alar in apples scare some years ago. We hear that the sky is falling with no real firm evidence and even conflicting evidence. I'm sure the people who send out these notices are doing it with good intentions, but let's be real. Saccharine can harm you if you ingest the equivalent of 800 cans of soda a day. An overabundance of anything will kill you. Before we ban anything or yell "the sky is falling" we need to be real about what we are looking at. "All things in moderation."

Tod Hann, Phoenix, AZ

I had no idea that plastic bottles, or other plastics, contained chemicals that leak into your food, water, or body. Until July of 2007 I would buy bottled water and reuse the bottle for up to two weeks thinking I was helping the environment. Little did I know that by doing that I inadvertently contracted an infection. At first I thought it was from the lip of the bottle which might contain decomposing bits of food from my mouth. Then I read an article, not too long after my hospital stay for the infection, that stated how plastic bottles begin decomposing and leaking the chemical(s) as soon as air hits the water. What a surprise to me!

T. Goben, Hermosa, SD

With our nations consumption of oil, couldn't we use more glass and other safe products not made from oil to lower the demand for oil, in turn lowering the price of gas? Just a thought.

jason, Brooklyn Park, MN

Even metal bottles, like SIGG are lined with BPA as are all canned goods.

Jane, Radnor, PA

Some good news -- Nalgene bottles, which are nearly indestructable, have gone totally BPA free. I still have/use my older ones, but I've picked up the new version and it seems the same to me.

Diana, Boston, MA

Just another example of eugenics look up that word. You think BPA's bad fluoride is toxic. Read the back of your tooth paste it says if swallowed contact a poison control center. The amount their refering to is much less than what you normally brush with by the way. Bet many of you did'nt know the warning refers to the fluoride. On average one 8oz glass of water has the same ammount or Floride as what you are warned about concerning swallowing the same amount in toothpaste. But hey Americia drink up how many glasses of water are recomended a day. Think about that. By the way fluoride comes from aluminum manfactering waste. It is highly toxic,expensive, and very hard to dispose of. No wonder Hitler put it in the drinking water in the concentration camps. If you want to find out about some real history go to youtube and watch Endgame by alex jones. For real news not corporate controled media go to infowars.com and click listen live it's a free daily news show and it broadcast live & refeeds 24 hours a day 7 days a week.

AJ, LA/OC, CA

If I ''worried'' about everything in the news, I wouldn't have time to enjoy life! Life is too short to live it according to 'studies'......

suzanne, San Francisco, CA

I wish we could recycle plastic where I live. We just now started recycling aluminum this year.

Nobody Special, Ponce, PR

Wow, this is pretty crazy. I've been hearing for a couple years about plastics. I don't drink bottled sodas anymore. I wish they'd do some more research on it.

Kayla, Lake Charles, LA

I am a home economist and have never microwaved in plastic or liked to drink or even buy foods stored in plastic. I am not using new aluminum bottles because they say it causes alzheimers. I hope all people will do the moral thing, from their employment, to their home. We cannot afford to think through money, but through morals. Less is better!

Ardie, Pittsburgh, PA