Safer Plastics for Storing Food

Look for containers with recycling codes #1 PETE, #2 HDPE, #4 LDPE and #5 PP (on the bottom of containers). Of these, #1 and #2, used in many larger water bottles, are most commonly recycled and least toxic, along with #4 used in BestYet Clear Wrap and Glad Cling Wrap.

As they are generally not recyclable, avoid #3 PVC or V (poly vinyl chloride), #6 PS (polystyrene) and #7 (polycarbonate) plastics. PVC's manufacture and incineration release dioxins, which are carcinogens and hormone disruptors. In contact with foods, especially hot, fatty foods, PVC can also leach chemicals such as adipates and phthalates, shown in mice to cause birth defects and damage to the liver and kidneys. Polycarbonate plastic can release bisphenol A, a suspected hormone disruptor.