This document discusses the potential dangers of plastic containers. It notes that plastics can contain toxic additives like Bisphenol A (BPA) which is an estrogen-like endocrine disruptor that has been linked to reproductive issues. The document also lists the resin codes found on plastic containers and recommends consumers avoid heating plastics, check codes, and switch to BPA-free or stainless steel bottles.

1. THE DARK SIDE OF PLASTIC
CONTAINERS.

2. PLASTIC
?
Synthetic/semi-
synthetic organic
solids (moldable).
Organic polymers
of high molecular
mass.
Most commonly
derived from
petrochemicals.

3. DANGER, WHY?
Plastic products
contain a variety of
additives (some can
be toxic).
Some compounds
leaching from
polystrene food
containers.
Some polymers may
decompose into the
monomers/other
toxic substances
when heated.

4. BISPHENOL A.
• Chemical
found in
hard
plastics &
the coatings
of food &
drink cans
• Part of the
bisphenols
group of
chemical
compounds
• Estrogen-
like
endocrine
disruptor

5. Can upset normal
hormonal balance
Stimulate the
growth &
development of
reproductive tumors
Impair fertility
Disrupt pregnancy
EFFECTS OF
ENDOCRINE
DISRUPTORS.

6. *NTP – NATONAL TOXICOLOGY PROGRAM

7. RESIN CODE
PETE
(polyethylene
terephthalate).
HDPE (high-
density
polyethylene).
PVC or V Poly
(vinyl
chloride).

8. Includes both
LDPE (low-
density
polyethylene) &
LLDPE (linear
low-density
polyethylene).
PP
(polypropylene).
PS (polystyrene)
& HIPS (high-
impact
polystyrene).

9. Any other plastic,
including
polycarbonate &
BPA, & often
contain a
combination of
plastics 1-6.

10. WHAT CAN
CONSUMERS
DO?
AVOID
HEATING.
CHECK THE
NUMBER ON
YOUR
PLASTIC.
START USING
BPA FREE
BOTTLES OR
STAINLESS
STEEL.