There has been a lot of talk lately about the harmful effects of bisphenol A (BPA), a major component of #7 polycarbonate (PC) water and baby bottles. The research into the effects of BPA on animals has provided enough evidence that plastic containing the chemical poses developmental, neurological and behavioral problems for fetuses, infants and children.
So now you find yourself searching through your pantry, checking all your plastic bottles and containers (just to be on the safe side) if any of them are polycarbonate (usually represented by #7 in the triangle at the bottom of your plastic container). And if you happen to have any, what is the best bay to dispose of them? Well, unfortunately, polycarbonate is not highly recyclable so the first thing to do is to find out if it can be recycled in your area. Moreover, if you can, try not to throw polycarbonate in regular trash since it will end up in the landfills. Instead, send it back to the manufacturer.
It is crucial to know, however, that not all #7 plastic bottles are polycarbonate, therefore containing BPA. Polylactic Acid (PLA) is a corn-based biodegradable plastic that is also #7. One way to distinguish between the two is by the appearance of the bottles. PLA is less clear and more pliable than BPA plastic. Fortunately, an increasing number of companies are pledging to use the more eco-friendly varieties of plastic.
Meantime, if you’re still not sure whether you should replace your old plastic with new and improved one, do a bit of research about what is available in your store and go from there.
