Have you ever picked up a bottle of water, tipped it to your mouth, and wondered what you were drinking? No, we're not talking about the water, we're talking about the plastic your bottle is made of. Those tiny numbers on the bottom of the packaging aren't just random symbols—they're hiding important information about how safe (or dangerous!) the plastic you drink from every day is. Do you know what those numbers on bottles mean?
Why is it important to know what the numbers on your plastic bottles? Shocking fact: some types of plastic can eventually leach harmful chemicals into your drinks, linked to hormone disruption, liver problems, and even cancer! If you don't want to get poisoned after a few sips, read on - we reveal which plastics are safe and which ones you should stop using IMMEDIATELY.
What do the numbers on the bottles mean?
Every plastic bottle and packaging has a number from 1 to 7 on it, which tells us what material it is made of and how safe it is to use. Let's take a look at each one individually!
1. PET or PETE (polyethylene terephthalate) – SINGLE USE!
Where can we find it?
In water bottles, juice bottles, carbonated drinks, salad dressing packaging and even ketchup containers.
Is it safe?
PET is considered safe as long as you use it ONLY ONCE. When the bottle is heated or used repeatedly, it can release antimony – a metal that is toxic in large quantities. It can also absorb bacteria, so refilling old bottles is a bad idea.
Tip: If possible, avoid PET bottles and use glass or stainless steel bottles instead.
2. HDPE (High Density Polyethylene) – A SAFE CHOICE
Where can we find it?
In milk bottles, detergents, shampoo bottles, plastic bags and food packaging.
Is it safe?
Yes! HDPE is one of the safest plastics, as it does not release dangerous chemicals and is heat resistant. That is why it is often used for children's toys and medical devices.
Tip: If you have to choose a plastic, HDPE is the best choice for multiple uses.
3. PVC (polyvinyl chloride) – TOXIC!
Where can we find it?
In food wrap, plastic tubes, oil packaging and some detergent bottles.
Is it safe?
No! PVC contains phthalates and chlorine, which are linked to hormonal disruption, fertility problems and cancer. When plastic is heated, it releases dioxins – toxic compounds that can cause respiratory problems and cancer.
Tip: If you see the mark 3 or PVC, avoid it as much as possible – especially for food and drinks!
4. LDPE (Low Density Polyethylene) – A BETTER CHOICE, BUT NOT PERFECT
Where can we find it?
In plastic bags, bread packaging, frozen food and squeeze bottles (e.g. ketchup, honey).
Is it safe?
It is generally considered safe as it does not release harmful chemicals, but it is not the best choice for hot food or drinks as it can start to break down at high temperatures.
Tip: Although it is not dangerous, you should opt for natural materials such as glass, stainless steel, or paper packaging.
5. PP (polypropylene) – THE SAFEREST PLASTIC!
Where can we find it?
In yogurt packaging, soup pots, straws, bottle caps and medicine packaging.
Is it safe?
Yes! PP is heat resistant, does not release toxic substances and does not absorb chemicals. Therefore, it is one of the best choices for storing food and drinks.
Tip: If you are buying reusable bottles, choose ones that are marked with a number 5 (PP).
6. PS (polystyrene) – AVOID!
Where can we find it?
In fast food packaging, plastic plates, coffee cups, and plastic forks.
Is it safe?
No! Polystyrene can release styrene, which is linked to cancer and hormone problems. It is especially dangerous if hot liquids are poured into it (e.g. coffee in plastic cups).
Tip: It's better to bring your own coffee cup and avoid fast food packaged in PS packaging.
7. PC and other plastics – NO CLARITY!
Where can we find it?
In reusable plastic bottles, baby bottles, sports drink packaging, and some cans.
Is it safe?
Plastic with number 7 is problematic, as it often contains bisphenol A (BPA), which is linked to hormonal disruption, obesity, and fertility problems. Some products with this label are BPA-free, but it's not always clear which plastic is actually safe.
Tip: If you don't know what the number 7 on the plastic means, don't take any chances!
Conclusion: How to safely drink and eat from plastic?
✅ The safest plastics: 2 (HDPE) and 5 (PP)
⚠️ Limited security: 1 (PET) and 4 (LDPE)
❌ Avoid: 3 (PVC), 6 (PS) and 7 (PC)
You need to check the numbers on the bottles! If you really want to be safe, drink from glass or stainless steel bottles and avoid plastic where possible. Next time you buy a bottle of water, check the label – your health is too valuable to risk!
