Distinguishing whether plastic products are toxic or not through symbols
Plastic poisoning is very dangerous, can cause cancer so it is necessary to be aware of this symbol to use it correctly. There are 7 types of plastic, each type contains information about the toxicity level of each type.
Reusing plastic boxes or bottles, especially for food storage, is becoming more and more popular. But when reusing, have you ever noticed the symbol (located in the arrows forming a triangle), usually printed on the bottom? This symbol shows the toxicity level of the plastic that makes up the plastic box and, importantly, the reusability of the plastic.
No. 1 - PET
PET plastic is one of the most commonly used types for household products, such as mineral water bottles, soft drinks, beer bottles and packaging.
This is a symbol that indicates a single-use plastic, so if used repeatedly, it can increase the risk of dissolving heavy metals and chemicals that make them up, affecting the hormone balance in the body. PET plastic is very difficult to clean, and the recycling rate is also very low, so it is best to throw it away immediately after use.
Illustration photo.
No. 2 - HDP
HDP (high density thermoplastic) is used to make hard plastic containers such as milk jugs, detergent and cooking oil bottles, toys and some plastic bags. It does not emit toxic substances, so it is often chosen as the safest of all plastics.
Number 3 - PVC or 3V
PVC is a soft and flexible plastic commonly used to make transparent food packaging, cooking oil bottles, toys and many other products. However, it contains two chemicals that can release toxic substances at high temperatures, so it should only be used to store food or drinks below 81 degrees Celsius.
No. 4 - LDPE
LDPE is a low-density thermoplastic commonly found in noodle boxes, freezer boxes, shopping bags, and cake wrappers. Products containing this material should not be heated in the microwave, and high temperatures should be avoided as this will release toxic chemicals.
No. 5 - PP
PP is a white or nearly transparent plastic. It is durable and lightweight, and can withstand temperatures above 100 degrees Celsius, so it can be reused and microwaved. PP is also resistant to moisture and grease.
Number 6 - PS
PS is a cheap and lightweight plastic that can be found on the shells of some fast food containers and drinking cups. Although it can withstand heat and cold, it should not be used in microwaves because it can release toxic substances. In addition, it should not be used to store strong acids or strong alkalis. Therefore, this type of plastic is not used for long-term food storage.
Number 7 - PC or no symbol
This is the most dangerous type of plastic, easily producing carcinogens and infertility. Almost no household plastics carry the number 7 label. This type of plastic is mostly used in industry, from phone cases, computers... Recycling programs do not accept this type of plastic.
Number 1 - PET - Single-use plastic. No. 2 – HDP - Plastic type that does not emit toxic substances, safe. Number 3 - PVC or 3V - Type only for containing food and drinks below 81 degrees Celsius. Number 4 - LDPE - Plastic type that should be avoided at high temperatures because it releases toxic chemicals. No. 5 - PP - Plastic type that can withstand temperatures >100 degrees Celsius, can be reused. Number 6 - PS - Plastic type not used for long-term food storage. Number 7 - PC - The most dangerous plastic, not recycled. |
